A two-year-old boy believed to have fallen into the River Soar has been named as Xielo Maruziva, as police continued their search on Wednesday.
Xielo’s parents described their son as a “cheeky, funny” boy and “a bundle of joy” in a statement released by Leicestershire police.
Specialist police divers are continuing their third full day of searches for the boy in the Aylestone Meadows area of Leicester, a nature reserve which had flooded during recent heavy rain.
Xielo’s mother described him as “charming and creative”, adding: “Xielo is a cheeky, funny, friendly, smart, caring and independent little boy.
“He never fails to make me laugh or smile, and always loves a cuddle and some kisses. Xielo loves playing with his toys and watching cartoons including Bino and Fino.
“Me, his dad and the whole family are so heartbroken at what has happened. We thank everyone who has supported us and helped us during this time.
“We are extremely grateful for this. All we want is for Xielo to be found as soon as possible.”
The child was with his family when he fell into the river from a towpath shortly after 5pm on Sunday evening, Leicestershire police said.
Xielo’s father went into the water to try to reach the toddler but was unable to save him and was taken to hospital as a “precautionary measure”, and has since been discharged.
The boy’s father said he was “a bundle of joy to us”, adding: “He is a charming and creative little boy, and has just started at nursery.
“He loves cuddles, playing with his toys and going to the park. As a family we have been completely devastated over the past few days as the search for Xielo continues. It is hard to describe the pain and suffering we are going through.
“We would like to thank the search teams. We would also like to thank members of the public for all of your support. It is your prayers which are keeping us strong.”
