Members of the public made valiant efforts to rescue a 13-year-old girl who went missing in a Yorkshire river on Sunday. Despite their brave attempts, the teenager tragically passed away in a hospital in Skipton, North Yorkshire, after being retrieved from the water. She was airlifted to the hospital by an air ambulance following the emergency services’ swift response to the scene.

This heartbreaking incident adds to a series of fatalities in open water during the recent heatwave, making the teenage girl the 17th reported victim of open water-related deaths across the UK. North Yorkshire Police expressed gratitude towards the public for their rescue endeavors and extended their sympathies to the girl’s family during this distressing period.

A spokesperson for North Yorkshire Police disclosed that the emergency services were alerted to the situation at the River Wharfe near Burnsall in the Skipton area around 6:30 pm on Sunday, May 31, 2026, following the girl’s disappearance in the river. Despite the combined efforts of bystanders and medical personnel, the girl unfortunately did not survive.

The police spokesperson emphasized the importance of respecting the family’s privacy and allowing them space to mourn in peace. The identity of the girl has not been disclosed at this time. The community’s assistance at the scene was acknowledged and appreciated by the authorities.