A BODY has been found in the search for a boy who was swept into the sea during a family fishing trip on the Central Coast.
Laith Alaid, 11, from Sydney, was on fishing with his family when tragedy struck just after 5pm on Sunday.
An urgent multi-agency search was launched after Laith was taken by the current while crossing a channel at The Entrance with his father and three younger brothers.
Two bystanders looked after the other children, aged between three and nine, as Laith's father tried to reach him but was unsuccessful.
The coordinated multi-agency search was called off last night but water crews - including marine police, marine rescue volunteers and surf life savers - continued patrols of the area today.
Emergency services were called to The Entrance about 2.30pm on Wednesday, November 6, after reports a body had been located in the water.
The body was yet to be identified that afternoon, but was believed to be that of the missing boy.
A report will be prepared for the Coroner.
Laith's family released a public statement yesterday, the third day of the search, saying they were "deeply moved" by the support they had received.
"Thank you to all the volunteers, emergency services, and members of the Central Coast community, who have selflessly dedicated their time and resources to the search efforts," the statement said.
The family requested privacy as they supported each other through this difficult time.
The extensive search for the boy involved local and water police, surf lifesavers, helicopters and Marine Rescue NSW volunteers on Sunday night and through daylight hours the past two days. Patrols continued on Wednesday.
