Rescue crews search for 8-year old boy who fell in York River

New Kent Sheriff’s Office is leading a search to find an 8-year old boy who fell from a bridge into the water near Mill Creek near Eltham.

Around 5 p.m. Sunday afternoon (July 26), reports that two people fell into the York River were received by New Kent Sheriff’s Office. A search and rescue effort initiated shortly afterwards. An adult was rescued, but the search for the boy, identified as Joel Mercado, continued before the search was called off at 11:30.

Divers, boaters, and helicopters searched for the boy until suspended due to safety concerns and conditions, according to Chief Deputy Joe McLaughlin Jr.

Search crews are expected to return to the premises Monday morning.