Body found in River Ouse identified as missing soldier

North Yorkshire Police have confirmed that the body found in the River Ouse near Skeldergate Bridge yesterday has been identified as missing 18-year-old, Tyler Pearson

The soldier was last seen entering the River Ouse in the early hours of Thursday 3 April 2014.

Julia Mulligan, Police and Crime Commissioner for North Yorkshire, said:

“My heart goes out to Tyler’s family, and I know the police will offer all the help and support the family need at this very difficult time.

“The recent spate of fatalities highlights the importance of staying safe near York’s rivers, particularly when alcohol has been consumed. Last month’s river safety summit concluded that the priority needs to be on prevention as well as response.

"Work is currently underway with groups across York and families of recent river victims to make some short films to highlight the dangers of the river. In the longer term we will devise a sustained and powerful campaign to help prevent more lives being needlessly cut short.

"In addition to this, I am keen to facilitate vulnerability training, so those working in York’s night-time economy know who they can go to and what they can do to help keep vulnerable people safe."