Woman and Young Child Drown in Elthorne Park
Tragedy occurred after pair entered the water in the River Brent
The River Brent by Elthorne Park. Picture: Google Streetview
May 1, 2026
A 34-year-old woman and her seven-year-old son have died after getting into difficulty in the water at Elthorne Park.
On one of the warmest days of the year so far in London, the incident unfolded on Saturday afternoon (25 April). Emergency services were called just before 4.30pm following reports that a woman and child were in difficulty in the water, in an area of the park bordered by the River Brent and close to the Grand Union Canal Walk.
Despite urgent efforts by the London Ambulance Service, London Fire Brigade, police officers and members of the public, both were pronounced dead at the scene.
The victumes have been named as Hamdi Ali and her son Ibrahim Mohamed. Eye-witnesses have reported that she jumped in to the water to rescue her child after he appeared to be drowning.
Detective Superintendent Pete Thackray, from the Met’s West Area Command Unit, described the loss as “a tragic incident in which a woman and her young child have lost their lives,” adding that their thoughts are with the family at this devastating time. He also praised the “incredibly challenging” efforts of first responders and members of the public who attempted to help.
Police confirmed that an investigation is under way, but stressed that all initial indications suggest the circumstances are not suspicious. The focus now is on establishing how the pair came to be in the water and notifying relatives. The deaths occurred as temperatures in Ealing reached around 21C, drawing many residents outdoors to enjoy the sunshine.
London Fire Brigade sent three fire engines as well as a Fire Rescue Unit to the incident.
The brigade's Assistant Commissioner for Prevention and Protection Pam Oparaocha said, “Our thoughts are with the family and their loved ones following this tragedy and we ask that their privacy is respected at this difficult time.
“Sadly, over 100 people have died in accidental drownings in London over the last five years, so this Be Water Aware Week we want to remind Londoners about the real and immediate dangers of open water.
“We know that the warmer weather can tempt people to cool off in rivers and lakes, but even in hot weather most inland water in London remains below 16°C, which can cause cold water shock and lead to drowning.
“Many Londoners are not aware that despite its calm surface, open water can have strong currents, hidden debris, slippery edges, and sudden drops in depth - all of which could prove fatal.
“If you are planning to swim outdoors, do so only in designated areas and ensure that lifeguards and safety equipment are present.
“If you see someone else in difficulty, don’t enter the water yourself. Call 999 and try to throw them something that floats.”
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