Body found in search for missing 11yo boy

NSW Police have confirmed a body, believed to be that of the 11-year-old boy who went missing at The Entrance, has been located in the water.

An 11-year-old boy was swept out to sea on Sunday. Picture: NewsWire

A body, believed to be that of an 11-year-old boy who went missing at The Entrance over the weekend, has been found.

About 2.30pm authorities were told a body had been found in the water at The Entrance.

In a statement, NSW Police said while the body is yet to be formally identified, it is believed to be Laith Alaid, the boy who went missing on the Central Coast on Sunday.

On Sunday, emergency services responded to reports of a boy being swept into the ocean, after he attempted to cross The Entrance Channel.

Laith was with his father, aged 43, and his three younger siblings, aged nine, seven and three, at the time.

Laith Alaid went missing at The Entrance on Sunday. Picture: Supplied from family via Police Media

Laith then lost his footing in the fast-moving current and was then swept out to sea.

Multiple emergency services were involved in an extensive search for the boy.

At the time of the incident on Sunday, the boy was on a family fishing trip on the Central Coast.

In the wake of the search, Laith’s family released a statement, thanking the community for its support.

“We are deeply moved by the community support we have received since Laith went missing at The Entrance on Sunday,” the statement released by his family read.

“Thank you to all the volunteers, emergency services, and members of the Central Coast community, who have selflessly dedicated their time and resources to the search efforts.”

The family went on to say they remained “hopeful” and asked the public for privacy.

About 4pm on Tuesday, NSW Police said the search for Laith halted, however, police, lifesavers and rescue volunteers would continue with patrols in the area.

A report will be prepared for the Coroner.