Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Woman, Child Die in Ealing Park Drowning; No Suspicion

4/26/2026

24 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

A woman and her child died after difficulty in water at Elthorne Park, Ealing, London, and were pronounced dead.
Police were called at 4:29 pm and responded with the London Ambulance Service and London Fire Brigade.
Detective Superintendent Pete Thackray said the investigation is under way and signs show the deaths are not suspicious.
Police praised emergency crews and the public, calling the rescue an incredibly challenging situation.

History

Historical Context

The last major central-London inundation before modern defenses was the 7 January 1928 Thames flood, which killed 14 people and left thousands homeless. That disaster, together with the 1953 North Sea surge, drove the Greater London Council to build the Thames Barrier, now operated by the Metropolitan Police and fire services during today’s Elthorne Park rescue.

1 of 2

Story summary

A woman and her child died after difficulty in water at Elthorne Park, Ealing, London, and were pronounced dead.
Police were called at 4:29 pm and responded with the London Ambulance Service and London Fire Brigade.
Detective Superintendent Pete Thackray said the investigation is under way and signs show the deaths are not suspicious.
Police praised emergency crews and the public, calling the rescue an incredibly challenging situation.

1 / 2