A deceased individual has been discovered amid the ongoing efforts to locate former England rugby player Tom Voyce, whose vehicle was pulled into a river during Storm Darragh.

The 43-year-old was said to have entered the River Aln on Sunday.

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Chief Superintendent Helena Barron of Northumbria Police remarked, “This is an extremely sorrowful turn of events, and our condolences go out to Tom’s family and friends.

“I appreciate the efforts of all our officers, partners, and volunteers who participated in the searches, which took place under especially challenging conditions.

“We urge respect for the family’s privacy during this sensitive period.”

DISAPPEARED WITHOUT A TRACE

Authorities were notified after the former winger failed to return home following a Saturday night spent with friends.

It is suspected he may have tried to drive across Abberwick Ford, where his vehicle became ensnared by the river’s current.

The vehicle was recovered, and searches for Voyce continued due to concerns he might have been swept away.

Chief Superintendent Helena Barron had previously stated, “This is a profoundly tragic situation, and our thoughts remain with Tom’s loved ones during this trying time.

“Our officers continue to support his family, and we kindly request respect for their privacy.

“Detailed investigations have been ongoing since concerns for Tom were raised, including the use of specialized teams for searches.”

Search operations have involved specialized units from Northumbria Police’s Marine Section, along with assistance from the National Police Air Service, drones, and rescue dogs.

Volunteers from the North of Tyne Mountain Rescue have also joined the search efforts alongside Mr. Voyce’s family and friends.

These search operations are being coordinated by teams with specialized training or knowledge of the local terrain.

Members of the public are discouraged from conducting independent searches in the area.

A spokesperson from Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS) stated they were on the scene at 2:10 PM on Sunday at the behest of Northumbria Police.

The statement continued: “We arrived with our Swift Water Team and supplied portable lighting to assist in the search.

“Our teams also secured the vehicle to the riverbank. The NFRS was subsequently released from the scene by police.

“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the missing person during this extremely difficult time.”

The former winger has earned nine caps for England and played for Bath, London Wasps, and Gloucester throughout a notable career.

His tenure at Wasps lasted six years, during which he attained both European and domestic championships.

Voyce made a total of 220 Premiership appearances before retiring in May 2013.

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