A MISSING toddler whose body was discovered in a Scottish river was named by police yesterday.
Jacob McIntyre was reported from an address in rural Perth and Kinross on Sunday morning. The 11am call sparked a major search in the Milton of Drimmie area, close to Bridge of Cally.
A Police Scotland helicopter and Scottish Fire and Rescue Service personnel were involved in the operation and the two-year-old was found in the River Ericht just 150 yards from the property around 90 minutes later.
He was removed from the water by members of the fire service and given emergency treatment by paramedics. However, he could not be saved.
Yesterday police said the child’s family were “understandably upset at their tragic loss” and did not want to make any further statement at this time. Officers are now investigating the circumstances of the death.
In a statement, Detective Chief Inspector Iain Wales said: “This is a very tragic incident which resulted in a young boy sadly losing his life.
“The events will undoubtedly bring shock and sadness to this small community and further afield.
“We would like to thank our Scottish Fire and Rescue Service colleagues for their courage and assistance in Sunday’s difficult conditions.
“Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Jacob’s family at this difficult time.”
Local MSP and Deputy First Minister John Swinney described the death as “heartbreaking”. He added: “My deepest sympathies to everyone involved.’’ Local councillor Liz Grant, provost of Perth and Kinross, said: ‘’It will be absolutely devastating for the family and the community.
“It is a very small community. Bridge of Cally is a small village.
“The River Ericht is fast, the rivers are all fast coming down through that area, particularly at this time of year.”
The country’s charity air ambulance and a boat were also sent to the search as officers raced to trace the youngster. Floral tributes have been left close to the scene.
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