Emergency services have stood down after a large-scale operation to search a canal in Wolverhampton, sparked by fears for a person's safety.
Emergency Response Launched
On Sunday evening, January 4, at around 8.10pm, a report expressing concern for a person's welfare prompted a major multi-agency response. Firefighters, police officers, and paramedics raced to the scene at Bentley Bridge Way in the Wednesfield area.
The initial alert, which suggested there could be a 'person in the water', led to what authorities described as an 'extensive search' of the canal. Specialist teams utilised a range of equipment to scour the area thoroughly.
Specialist Equipment Deployed in Search
Responders worked through the evening and into Monday morning, employing significant resources to ensure no stone was left unturned. The search operation involved:
- A rescue raft for water-based searching.
- Sonar equipment to scan beneath the surface.
- Underwater and thermal imaging cameras.
Despite this concerted effort, no casualties were discovered during the operation.
Police Confirm 'Well-Intentioned' Report
In an update issued on the afternoon of Monday, January 5, West Midlands Police provided closure to the incident. A force spokesperson confirmed that officers had carried out detailed searches and enquiries.
The police statement read: "We understand that the report at around 8.10pm yesterday was well-intentioned but no one has been located. We believe there is no one who is unaccounted for and we are withdrawing from the scene."
The scene on Bentley Bridge Way has now been fully cleared. The incident serves as a reminder of the swift and comprehensive response mounted by emergency services to any potential threat to life, even when the alarm is raised in good faith.
