Girl Dies After Falling Into Canal in Kidderminster

A six year-old girl has died after falling into a canal with two other children in Kidderminster.

Whilst two of the children managed to pull themselves clear, Imie Harrison remained in the water for some time before she could be rescued.

It is not yet clear how the children came to be in the canal.

it's thought that Imie's twin brother ran home to raise the alarm.

The incident in cose to Springfield Park in Kidderminster happened just before 18:20 on Tuesday the 19th of March.

Superintendent Kevin Purcell, Police Commander in North Worcestershire, said:

“This appears to be an extremely tragic accident at this stage and our thoughts are with Imie’s family, who are absolutely devastated by her death. I would ask that their privacy is respected at this time.

“Our investigation into this incident is continuing today and we are working hard to establish exactly how Imie came to be in the water.

“We will be working closely alongside partner agencies, including Children Services at the local authority, to support pupils from Imie’s school in Kidderminster. Safer Neighbourhood Teams will also be visible in the area to help the community come to terms with this tragic incident.”

Gail Quinton, Director of Children's Services for Worcestershire County Council said:

“We would like to express our deepest sympathy for family and friends following the tragic death last night of Imie Harrison.

“Worcestershire County Council's Children's Services are working very closely with the police to support the investigation and also the school to support pupils and staff at this very sad and difficult time.”