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.”

Detective Superintendent Scott Ware, who led the Met's investigation, added: “This tragic accident took away a little girl who was loved by many.

"Our specialist officers will continue to support Kaliyah’s family as they process this heart-breaking news.

"I echo her family’s request for privacy while they navigate the difficult road ahead, and urge the public to refrain from wholly inaccurate speculation both on and offline.

“I would like to extend my thanks to our search and recovery teams, supported by blue light partners. I know the local community has been deeply impacted by this incident and also thank them for their support."

The Met was alerted to a body in the River Thames in Maritime Quay, E14 on Sunday, 13 April at 9.03am. Formal identification was conducted on Tuesday.

An inquest into Kaliyah’s death is due to open on Friday.

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