Former England rugby international Tom Voyce presumed dead after being swept away by floodwaters
Former England wing Tom Voyce, aged 43, is presumed dead after being swept away by floodwaters in the north of England while attempting to cross a river in his car on Sunday, during Storm Darragh. Local police have confirmed the tragic disappearance of the ex-player, stating that despite ongoing search efforts, his body has not yet been found.
According to the Northumbria Police, Voyce’s vehicle was discovered, but the former international has not been located. Authorities suspect that the former rugby player, who earned nine caps for the England national team between 2001 and 2006, was swept away by the current as he tried to exit his car. The incident occurred under particularly dramatic circumstances, with water levels in the Aln River significantly elevated due to heavy rainfall caused by Storm Darragh.
The former Bath and London Wasps star, who retired in 2013 after a distinguished career, was reported missing on Sunday, and search efforts are continuing despite challenging conditions. Northumbria Police Chief Superintendent Helena Barron stated that authorities are doing everything possible to locate Voyce, but the adverse weather conditions are complicating the search operations.
This past weekend, Storm Darragh wreaked havoc across the UK, causing the deaths of two people who were killed by falling trees on their vehicle in the northwest and central England. The rugby community is in shock after the tragic disappearance of Voyce, who remains a respected figure in English rugby.
Our thoughts and condolences go out to Tom Voyce’s family and loved ones, as the search continues in the hope of recovering his body and bringing answers to this tragedy.
