Carr Mill Dam: Body of teenage girl recovered following search

Emergency crews descended on the beauty spot at 12.30pm this afternoon following reports of concern for safety for the girl who was reported to be in distress in the water.

A number of police officers entered the water in a bid to find the 15-year-old girl who had been swimming with friends when she got into difficulty.

They were also joined by firefighters from Merseyside Fire and Rescue.

Despite their best efforts, the search has led to the recovery of the teenager’s body.

In a statement issued this evening, police confirmed the girl's next of kin have been informed and specialist family liaison officers will provide the family with support.

Police said the death is not being treated as suspicious and a file is being prepared for the coroner.
 

Police statement

Chief Inspector Paul Holden said: “It is with great sadness that we can confirm that the body of the teenage girl has been recovered from the water. Our sincere condolences go to her family and friends during this tragic time.

“I would appeal to anyone who was visiting Carr Mill Dam at around midday onwards to please get in touch so we can ascertain what happened and provide her family with answers.”

The beauty spot attracts large numbers of visitors, particularly children, on a sunny day. People living nearby say it is not uncommon to see children swimming in there.

Chief Inspector Holden added: "When the schools return for the summer term our schools officers will work with St Helens Council to ensure that we are able to educate young people about the dangers of water.

"We know how tempting it can be to cool down in the water on a hot summer's day, but we want to ensure that young people are equipped with the right knowledge to keep them safe around water."

Emergency services at Carr Mill Dam (Image: St Helens Star)

Police stationed at the Toby Carvery (Image: Newsquest)
 

Fire chiefs explained more details about the search.

St Helens Area Manager for Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, Kevin Longshaw, said: “Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service mobilised four fire engines at 12.30pm to reports of a young person who had come into difficulty in the water at Carr Mill Dam.

"Firefighters in water kit entered the dam to search. They were assisted with an airborne drone and an underwater drone.

"Working jointly with our police and ambulance colleagues, we were able to establish the location of the young person and tragically were able to confirm that a body was recovered shortly after.

"Our thoughts are very much with the family and all those affected by this tragic incident.”

Anyone with information is asked to DM @MerPolCC or @CrimestoppersUK on 0800 555 111 quoting reference 466 of 1 June.

Emergency services vehicles in the area (Image: St Helens Star)

A police cordon surrounding the dam (Image: St Helens Star)