Heart-Stopping Moment: 4-Year-Old Swept Away by River Current in Lowell

A massive search effort is underway in Lowell after a 4-year-old child was swept away by the fast-moving current of the Merrimack River on Monday afternoon. Multiple emergency agencies are on the scene, working tirelessly to locate the child, as the community watches and waits in a state of deep concern.

A Day at the River Turns Into a Nightmare

The incident happened just after 5:00 p.m. near the riverbank by Aiken Street Bridge, not far from a public walking trail and grassy recreational area. According to witnesses, the child was near the water with a family member when the unthinkable happened — the child was pulled into the river by a strong current and vanished from sight in seconds.

“It was so fast,” said one bystander, who was at the park with her own children. “One moment they were playing by the edge, and the next, there was shouting. People were running, calling 911.”

The child’s identity has not been released as authorities are giving the family privacy during what they’re calling a deeply emotional and urgent situation.

Dozens of First Responders Join the Search

Crews from the Lowell Fire Department, Massachusetts State Police, Environmental Police, and even the U.S. Coast Guard quickly launched a coordinated search. Boats, helicopters, drones, divers, and K9 teams have all been deployed in the hours since the child went missing.

As of Monday night and into Tuesday morning, teams were still out on the water and along the riverbanks, working in challenging conditions. Water levels were reportedly high and the current particularly strong, likely fueled by recent rain and spring runoff.

“It’s an all-hands-on-deck situation,” said one official on the scene. “Everyone here is doing everything they can.”

A Community Holds Its Breath

The news has sent shockwaves through the Lowell community. As word spread, dozens of residents came to the scene, some to offer help, others simply to be close — lighting candles, praying, or just standing silently as crews continued their search.

Several neighbors dropped off food and water for first responders. Others embraced the child’s family members, who were visibly distraught but hopeful.

“You can’t help but put yourself in their shoes,” said Maria Santiago, a local mother of three. “It’s every parent’s worst nightmare.”

On social media, messages of support and offers of help have poured in from surrounding towns, with hashtags like #PrayForLowell and #FindTheChild trending locally.

Officials Ask for Space, But Welcome Support

While rescue crews continue their work, authorities have asked the public to stay away from the search areas so that emergency workers can move freely and safely. They’ve also urged people not to speculate or spread rumors online.

“Please give the family grace right now,” said one firefighter. “We’re doing everything possible to bring this child home.”

A Reminder About Water Safety

Officials are also reminding families about the dangers of river currents, especially in the spring. With snowmelt and heavy rains, even calm-looking waters can quickly become dangerous.

“You don’t need to be swimming to be in danger,” a representative from the Massachusetts State Police said. “Even standing near the edge can be risky, especially for young children.”

As the Search Continues

By late Monday night, the mood at the riverbank had grown quieter but remained hopeful. First responders continued combing the shoreline with flashlights and drones equipped with thermal imaging. Many said they would remain at the scene throughout the night and beyond.

As of Tuesday morning, the child had not been located, but officials emphasized they are not giving up.

“We’re not leaving until we find them,” one officer said quietly, as he adjusted his gear before returning to the water’s edge.