Extensive Search Underway in Upstate New York After Young Boy Falls Into Genesee River

Rochester emergency crews are continuing an intensive search operation after a 5-year-old boy reportedly fell into the Genesee River late Sunday afternoon.

The incident occurred near the Andrews Street bridge where the child was accompanying his mother and a younger sibling. According to officials, the boy ran ahead of his mother while she was pushing a stroller and managed to climb a safety barrier along the bridge.

Tragically, he lost his balance and fell into the fast-moving river below before his mother could intervene. She attempted to pursue him along the shoreline but was unable to reach him due to construction fencing and challenging terrain. The river’s powerful current quickly swept the child out of view.

Emergency services were called immediately, and multiple agencies responded. Search teams deployed a variety of tools including drones, underwater sonar, and helicopter surveillance to assist in locating the missing child. Divers have also been in the water combing the area since the fall.

As of Monday afternoon, authorities have not yet recovered the child despite coordinated efforts from police, fire, and rescue crews. Investigators believe the fall was accidental and continue to focus on recovery.

RPD Captain Greg Bello spoke to the media in a briefing at the scene:

“There’s no way the mother could have safely rescued that child. There’s absolutely no way, it’s very dangerous the way the current runs and everything else, ” said Bello.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family.

Extensive Search Underway in Upstate New York After Young Boy Falls Into Genesee River