All four boys who tragically lost their lives after falling into a frozen lake in the UK have now been identified as their heartbroken families paid tribute.
Finlay Butler, eight, his brother Sam Butler, six, and their cousin Thomas Stewart, 11, had gone to feed ducks at a frozen lake in Solihull, West Midlands, on Sunday (December 11) when the ice cracked and they fell through. A fourth child - named as 10-year-old Jack Johnson - had reportedly seen the incident and rushed to save the three boys.
Sadly, all four went into cardiac arrest and were rushed to hospital, where Finlay, Thomas, and Jack later died the same day. Six-year-old Sam had fought for his life in intensive care but eventually passed away on Wednesday (December 14).
Finlay and Sam's parents, Daniel Butler and Gemma Haran, as well as Thomas' parents, Rebecca and Richard Stewart, have since spoken out about their heartbreak, stating: "As a family, we are devastated at the loss of our beautiful boys Tom, Fin and Sam in such tragic circumstances.
"We would like to thank the emergency services for all they did in rescuing the boys and to the community for their support, it has been overwhelming. We would like to pass on our condolences to Jack's family at this very sad time, and ask for privacy from the media to begin to grieve," they continued, via a statement on the West Midlands Police Facebook account.
Thomas's older brother paid tribute to him and Finlay as well, just before news broke that Sam had lost his life, writing: "Thomas was such a lively little soul, he had a big heart for such a young kid and he was so beautiful. He loved being outside playing with his mates. I love you Tom, big bro will take care of the family and I will see you soon. Make sure you keep practicing on warzone and get a win, will you?
"Can't forget about my dinosaur man Fin, he loved dinosaurs so much and always showing me new things he built on Minecraft and all the new stuff he learnt on it. Gonna miss you little man," he added.
Superintendent Rich Harris also released a statement, saying: "This is a tragedy beyond words and a grief that is unimaginable for the families and friends of the boys.
"The support from the community has been overwhelming, not just for the bereaved families, but also for the emergency services, for which we are extremely grateful. Our officers will remain in the area in the coming days. Please come and speak to us if you need to."
The Facebook post also revealed that extensive underwater searches were carried out after reports that up to six children were involved in the incident, however it has since been confirmed that they have concluded and no others were found or reported missing.
Our thoughts and deepest sympathies go out to the families and friends of Jack, Thomas, Finlay, and Sam at this tragic time.
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