A body found in the sea has been identified.
Police have confirmed the body that was pulled out of the sea by the coastguard belongs to 14-year-old British teenager Daniel Halliday, who went missing after spending a day with his brother.
The siblings were allegedly jumping into the River Mersey near Liverpool Bay when strong currents pulled the teen out to sea.
His older brother tried his best to save him, but the force of the water was just too strong.
At the time, his family released a statement emphasizing their heartbreak upon losing their loved one.
"Our worst fear is that this tragic accident has taken our lovely boy from us," they said, as per the Daily Mail. "Daniel was jumping waves with his big brother who tried to save him but the current was too strong.
"Daniel is a loving son, brother, cousin, nephew and grandson. The family are all devastated, and we hope that we will be allowed our privacy at this time. Thank you," they concluded.
Emergency services were called to Crosby Beach at around 7PM on June 30 to mount a search but despite their best efforts, Daniel was nowhere to be found.
Fast forward, and his body has now been discovered and retrieved by the coastguard off New Brighton on Monday night, police said.
The initial report stated: "Although the body has not yet been formally identified, officers remain in contact with the family of Daniel Halliday."
However, in a statement released this afternoon, Merseyside Police announced: "We can confirm that the body of a male found in the River Mersey is that of missing 14-year-old Daniel Halliday.
"Officers received a report that the body of a boy had been found by HM Coastguard on the evening of Monday 8 July in the river at New Brighton, the statement continued: "Following extensive forensic examinations by Merseyside Police, the boy has been formally identified as Daniel Halliday. Daniel had been reported to have been jumping waves in Crosby at 7PM on Sunday 30 June before getting into difficulty.
"Officers are supporting his family at this difficult time. His death is being treated as not suspicious and the case was referred to the coroner's office," it added.
Tributes have been pouring in for the young boy and his family, with many left saddened by the outcome of this situation.
"I am so saddened to hear about this tragic event and outcome. My heart goes out to Daniel's family and friends, and a thank you nod to the emergency services for finding him and helping support the family," wrote one user, while another added: "Horrendous tragedy , thoughts to all his family and friends. This part of the water can be much more dangerous than people think."
A third commented: "A terrible tragedy; I can't imagine what his parents must be going through. Condolences to all who knew and loved Daniel."
Our thoughts and prayers are with Daniel's loved ones during this difficult time.
