sportskeeda
A body has been found amid ongoing search efforts for former England rugby player Tom Voyce, whose car entered a river during Storm Darragh.
The 43-year-old was reported missing after his vehicle allegedly went into the River Aln on Sunday.
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Chief Superintendent Helena Barron from Northumbria Police commented, “This is a deeply saddening development, and our thoughts are with Tom’s family and friends.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all our officers, partners, and volunteers for their assistance throughout the searches, which have taken place under difficult conditions.
“We continue to request that the family’s privacy is respected during this challenging time.”
MISSING WITHOUT A TRACE
The police were alerted when the former wing did not return home after spending Saturday night with friends.
It is suspected he attempted to cross Abberwick Ford in his car, which got caught in the river’s current.
The vehicle was recovered, and the search for Voyce proceeded amid fears that he had been swept away.
Chief Superintendent Helena Barron previously stated, “This is an incredibly tragic incident, and our thoughts are sincerely with Tom’s loved ones during this time.
“Our officers continue to support his family, and we kindly ask for their privacy to be honored.
“Thorough investigations have been in progress since concerns were raised for Tom, involving specialized teams for search efforts.”
Search operations have included specialized units from Northumbria Police’s Marine Section along with the National Police Air Service, drones, and canine units.
Volunteers from the North of Tyne Mountain Rescue have participated in the search alongside Mr. Voyce’s family and friends.
The teams leading the searches are conducting them in a systematic way, either through specialized training or familiarity with the local area.
The public is advised against going to the scene for personal searches.
A spokesperson from Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS) mentioned that they arrived at the scene at 2:10 PM on Sunday at the request of Northumbria Police.
The statement elaborated: “We arrived with our Swift Water Team and provided portable lighting to aid in the search.
“Our teams also secured the vehicle to the riverbank. The NFRS has since been released from the scene by the police.
“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the missing individual during this incredibly challenging time.”
The former wing earned nine caps for England and had a successful career with Bath, London Wasps, and Gloucester.
He spent six years at Wasps, achieving both European and domestic titles.
Voyce made a total of 220 Premiership appearances before announcing his retirement in May 2013.
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