Devastated family of 11-year-old found in Thames share poignant tribute as body identified

An 11-year-old girl who died after entering the River Thames last month had been attending a birthday party but "never returned home", her family has said.

Police have confirmed that a body found in Maritime Quay on The Isle of Dogs, east London, on April 13 is Kaliyah Coa, who had been reported missing on March 31 after playing near Barge House Causeway in Woolwich during a school inset day.

In a statement issued by the Metropolitan Police on Wednesday, Kaliyah's family said: "Our hearts are broken and our lives will never be the same. We were blessed to have Kaliyah, even if it was for such a short time. She will be missed so much. Kaliyah went to a birthday party and never returned home to her family.

"The family would like to thank all those who were involved in the search and recovery of Kaliyah.

"We sincerely hope that everyone will respect our wishes to be given the space and time to grieve as a family."

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