A five-year-old boy has died in hospital after being rescued from the River Thames.

Daniel Alaby was reported missing after he was found playing with his younger brother at their home in Thamesmead, southeast London, at 5.30pm on Friday.

A child was found in the river at 6.23pm after a frantic police search, which included the use of a helicopter.

The child, whom police believe to be Daniel, was taken to hospital in critical condition. He was pronounced dead at the hospital later that evening.

If you knew Daniel and would like to pay your respects or have been affected by this incident, please contact Barney.Davis.Ind@independent.co.uk

A spokesman for the Metropolitan Police said: “Police launched an appeal on Friday, March 29 in a bid to find missing boy Daniel Alaby.

“At 18:23 that night, police officers searching for Daniel discovered a child in the Thames. Police pulled the child from the water and performed CPR before the London Ambulance Service arrived.

“The child, believed to be Daniel, was taken to hospital in a critical condition. He was pronounced dead at the hospital later that evening.”

They added that Daniel’s family were being supported by police and there was no evidence that anyone else was involved.

The Thamesmead community united in mourning the young boy on Saturday.

Reverend Sally Willett posted on Facebook: “A book of condolences will be available from the community at the Easter Eggstravaganza at West Thamesmead Community Church today from 2pm to 4pm Book in memory of Daniel Alaby.

“Our deepest sympathy, love and prayers go out to his family, friends and community during this tragic time.”

Anyone who may have seen Daniel on Friday night is asked to call police on 101 or post @MetCC ref 4592/29MAR24.