An 18-month-old toddler suffered potentially life-altering burns after a boat caught fire on the River Thames at Lechlade, Gloucestershire, on Saturday, May 31. The blaze forced nine people, including four children aged between 18 months and seven years, to jump into the river to escape.
Emergency services were alerted promptly, and all nine individuals were rushed to hospital for treatment. Three remain hospitalized, with two victims, including the young toddler, enduring severe burns. Fortunately, there were no fatalities.
The incident occurred while the boat was positioned away from the riverbank, compelling passengers to seek safety in the water. Among those rescued were five adults and four children, some of whom were unable to swim.
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Detective Superintendent Joe Garrity expressed gratitude to the heroism displayed during the incident, especially praising two holidaymakers from Wales who bravely jumped into the Thames to assist, risking their own safety. “It is a miracle there were no fatalities, and much of that must be put down to the response of two holidaymakers from Wales who happened to be passing,” Garrity stated.
He also commended Gloucestershire and Thames Valley Police, RAF Fairford, and the ambulance and fire services for their swift response. A safety cordon was initially put in place on the river to protect other users and allow for investigation into the cause of the fire. This cordon has since been lifted.
Authorities have urged anyone with additional information about the incident to contact Wiltshire Police, referencing log 129 from May 31.