A British four-year-old boy has reportedly died after falling into a swimming pool at a holiday home near the Costa del Sol.
The alarm was raised around 8.30am this morning at a rural property in the village of Periana, which belongs to Spain’s La Axarquia region and is approximately 30 miles from Malaga.
Police and paramedics raced to the property and a helicopter was also mobilised as part of the emergency response.
However, there was nothing they could do to save the youngster’s life and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
An investigation has been launched by the Civil Guard into the child’s death, but sources have claimed there is nothing at this stage that points to any criminality.
Local reports have stated that the young boy was the only child of the holiday couple, who have been left devastated by their loss.
One source said the British family had only arrived at the farmhouse yesterday.
Another added: ‘Investigators are still awaiting the results of the post-mortem but it appears to be a tragic accident.’
Periana Council said in a statement to the boy’s parents: ‘Today is a deeply sad day for our town. On behalf of Periana Town Council, we would like to extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the child who has passed away.
‘There are no words that can ease such immense grief, but we do wish to convey to you all our love, support and solidarity at this very difficult time.
‘The whole of Periana shares your sadness and stands with you in your grief at such a painful and unjust loss.’
Mayoress Meritxell Vizueta said she had gone to the property with a councillor to comfort the family.
A spokesman for a regional government-run emergency response centre said: ‘[A four-year-old] child has died this morning after falling into a swimming pool at a farmhouse in Periana, in the province of Malaga.
‘At 8.30 am we received a distress call reporting that a child had fallen into the pool. The 061 Health Emergency Centre (CES) was quickly alerted and dispatched a medical helicopter, the Civil Guard and the Local Police.
‘Despite the efforts of the emergency services, nothing could be done to save the child’s life. The circumstances surrounding the incident are unknown.’