Search For Girl Swept Away In Delaware County Creek Ends

CHESTER, PA — The recovery effort for the body of a 6-year-old girl who was swept away in Chester Creek Saturday has ended.

Chester City officials said recovery crews have stopped working to find the body of Li’najah Brooker.

Deployed in the search for Brooker were small and large craft boat teams, dive teams, underwater and aerial drones, sonar devices, security footage, U.S. Coast Guard choppers, and scent canines.

Brooker slipped and fell at about 6:55 p.m. Saturday while the creek was high and rainwater was on its way to the Delaware River, officials said.

Brooker was one of three girls playing by the creek when two fell in, although the other was able to get to safety.

The incident happened at Holy City Park.

Emergency crews responded with drones, a helicopter and boats, searching up to a mile south of the mouth of the Delaware River, authorities said. Responders will search Sunday until dusk, according to Chester Fire Department Capt. John-Paul Shirley.

There is a gap in the fence around the playground at the park, but the children also could have walked to the bank of the creek from a nearby residential area.

Below is a statement from Chester Mayor Stefan Roots on the incident and search operation:

As Mayor of Chester, PA, I stand before our community today with a heavy heart. The past days have been filled with intense efforts to locate a missing 6-year-old girl, Li’najah Brooker, who tragically fell into the Chester Creek after heavy rains on Saturday night.

Our search, rescue, and recovery operations have been exhaustive involving multiple agencies and dedicated individuals committed to bringing her home safely.

I want to extend my deepest gratitude to all the agencies involved in these efforts. From our local law enforcement, fire departments, emergency medical services, and search and rescue teams and volunteers, your unwavering dedication has been nothing short of remarkable. Your collaboration and commitment in this challenging time reflect the true spirit of our community.

Unfortunately, despite our collective efforts, we have been unable to locate the child. It is with profound sadness that we acknowledge this outcome. Our hearts ache for the family as they navigate through unimaginable grief. To the family, please know that the entire community stands with you during this incredibly difficult time.

As Mayor, I speak for our community when I say that we are deeply saddened by this tragedy. But in the face of adversity, our city has come together to offer support, prayers, and comfort to the family. The outpouring of solidarity from citizens of Chester and from those who have reached out to me directly expressing their sympathy and condolences from across the country has been overwhelming. In times of sorrow, it is through our unity and compassion that we find strength.

Together, let us continue to hold the family in our thoughts and prayers, offering them solace and support in any way we can. May they find comfort in the love and care surrounding them during this challenging time.

Thank you to everyone who has played a part in the search, rescue, and recovery efforts. Your dedication and selflessness are a testament to the resilience and compassion of our community.