The devastated firefighters who tried to save the children who ultimately died after falling into a frozen lake have paid tribute.
As reported by Sky News, on December 11, a rescue operation was launched after reports stated that up to six children fell in an icy lake at Babbs Mill Park, Solihull.
Authorities confirmed that three boys aged 11, 10, and eight have passed away after going into cardiac arrest when they fell into the icy water, while another boy - aged six - remains in critical condition in the hospital.
On December 12, a group of firefighters - who tried to rescue the boys - sported their protective attire as they placed a flower tribute at the base of a tree near the northern entrance to the park.
The seven emotional service workers formed a line as they laid bouquets. They also wrote a message that read: "With the deepest sympathy. Rest in peace boys. Love from Sheldon Red Watch."
According to The Mirror, the West Midlands mayor, Andy Street, also left a tribute at the unfortunate scene that said: "Such a tragedy. So unnecessary."
"My heart goes out to the families that have lost their most precious gift. May their young lives rest in peace, and may Kingshurst come together to remember them," Street added.
Many other people in the local community, including schoolchildren, placed flowers and messages in honor of the youngsters who tragically lost their lives.
One victim of the tragedy was identified as Thomas after a friend left a note in his memory that read: "To my friend Thomas. Thanks for being there for me when I was sad."
"Thanks for lending me your jacket when I was cold. You were like a brother to me. I miss you so much," the message heartfully concluded.
In addition to this, one of the victims was also named locally as 10-year-old Jack Johnson. A neighbor described the boy as a "lovely lad" and told the Daily Mail that he and his friends just wanted to play in the snow.
The outlet also reported that the brave boy died a hero as he reportedly attempted to save the other children that had fallen in when the ice cracked.
Emergency services called to the scene were unable to save the three boys - with one police officer suffering mild hypothermia after trying to punch through the ice to rescue them.
While speaking to reporters at the scene, Superintendent Richard Harris said the families of victims were "absolutely devastated," especially because it was "so close" to Christmas.
"We are supporting the families. We have specialist trained officers who are linking in with the families at this time to offer as much support as we can," he explained.
Harris also said that the search of the lake would continue, despite there being no reports of anyone else missing beyond the four boys. He stated that the rescue squad will be "here for as long as it takes".
Furthermore, the area commander of the West Midlands fire service, Richard Stanton, also said: "The boys' deaths are a tragedy beyond words. Yesterday’s incident is a stark reminder to us all of the dangers of open water, especially during the winter months."
"Frozen lakes, ponds, canals, and reservoirs can look picturesque, but they can be lethal. There are no greater warnings of this than yesterday’s tragic events," he said.
"We would ask parents and carers to remind their children of the dangers of ice and why they must keep off it," he continued, adding, "Please help us to avoid this happening again."
