The father of a five-year-old boy who died after being found in the River Thames is “an absolute wreck” who is “in bits”, a local reportedly said.
Daniel Alaby was pronounced dead in hospital on Friday, after police found the little boy who had gone missing from his home in Thamesmead, south-east London, in the water.
Someone who lives nearby, who did not want to be named, said they saw Daniel’s father on Saturday morning, describing him as an “absolute wreck”.
She told The Sun: "His dad this morning was saying: 'We keep the doors locked, how did he get out?'."
The woman went on to say that Daniel “loves and is drawn to water”.
She added that she does not understand how no one saw Daniel if he ended up in the water because he climbed the barrier.
She said: “Daniel lives within a five-minute walk, it would have taken him 5 minutes to climb up [the barrier], so where was everyone?
"If people were around at the time then society has failed him."
Daniel was last seen playing with his brother in his bedroom.
The Metropolitan Police said Daniel was discovered in the river at 6.23pm.
Officers administered CPR before paramedics arrived to take him to hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
The force has also said there is no evidence to suggest anyone else was involved.
One tribute left at the scene of the tragedy reads: “Daniel, sleep peacefully. Thoughts are with your family.”
Another said: “Rest in eternal peace little man. Thoughts are with your family at this sad time.”
Daniel’s family is currently being supported by specialist officers.
