Sunday, 26 January 2020 - 9:47am |
Southern

Family statement regarding search for missing teen, St Clair Beach

1 min read

Statement from Kathy Peters, a relative of 14-year-old Vinnie Beecroft, on behalf of the family:

Vinnie’s family wish to express their utmost gratitude for the efforts that have been made by everyone in the search.

A special thanks to NZ Search and Rescue, Police, Victim Support, Surf Life Saving NZ, especially at St Clair, and all others involved.

Very special thoughts and thanks go to the young boys who were there with Vinnie at the time, their efforts were truly brave and heroic in their bid to help Vinnie when he got into difficulty at Seconds Cliff on Thursday afternoon.

The boys had spent the afternoon having fun in and around the water, enjoying the day, when tragedy struck.

Unfortunately, Vinnie’s immediate family have endured a number of tragic events over the years and are trying to cope with the current situation as best they can.

They ask that their privacy be respected at this difficult time and are still holding onto hope that Vinnie will be found, but acknowledge this is becoming increasingly unlikely as the hours pass.

Again, thank you to all those involved and to the services and people that know Vinnie well and have supported him in the past.

A heartfelt thank you is expressed for the ongoing support you are offering.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre