A village has been left “shocked and deeply saddened” after the death of a young child.
There has been an outpouring of grief in Badsey after it was confirmed that the child, who went missing on Wednesday night (July 29), had been found unresponsive in a body of water.
Police described it as an “incredibly tragic” incident and confirmed that there was no third party involvement.
READ MORE: Young child dies after being found in body of water
In an emotional post, Badsey Butchers on the High Street, sent its condolences to the family and loved ones of the child.
As a mark of respect, the business has suspended social media posting for the rest of the week.
‘There are simply no words’
“Today has left our whole community shocked and deeply saddened,” a spokesperson for Badsey Butchers said.
“Our hearts go out to a local family facing an unimaginable loss, along with everyone who knows and loves them.
“There are simply no words that can ease a heartbreak like this, but we hope they know the entire village is thinking of them.
“As a mark of respect, we won’t be posting any further content for the rest of this week.
“Please keep them in your thoughts and give them the privacy and compassion they deserve.”
In an additional post, Badsey Butchers confirmed that the village’s church had given permission for people to lay flowers at the stone cross by the porch. They asked that cellophane wrappers are removed beforehand.
Jodie Smith Cakes, a business in Evesham, echoed the shock, saying it was “devastating news”.
The business said: “Absolutely devastating news that the small child that was missing last night in Badsey has passed away.
“Thinking of the poor family and all involved.
“No words can comprehend the tragedy.”
Police statement
In a statement on Thursday, police urged the public to avoid speculating about the incident online.
The force said it was unable to confirm the age of the child.
“Officers were called to a report of a missing child in Badsey yesterday evening,” a West Mercia Police spokesperson said.
“Sadly, the child was found unresponsive in a body of water, and a short time later was pronounced dead.
“There is no third-party involvement in the child’s death, and a report will be prepared for the coroner.
“This is an incredibly tragic incident. We ask the public to avoid speculation online as this is incredibly distressing to the family and we ask that their privacy is respected at such a difficult time.”
