GREECE, N.Y. -- Police say it appears that the 6-year-old child whose body was recovered in Henpeck Park Thursday evening accidentally fell into the canal and drowned.

As part of the preliminary investigation, police have identified the victim as Alliyah Williams. An official medical examiner's report has not been released.

Alliyah was reported missing shortly after 7 p.m. on Thursday. According to officials, she was with two family members who were not her parents, but returned alone to the water's edge to retrieve a sandal, and that's when police said she fell into the canal.

"Everybody here wanted to help and unfortunately, we weren't able to. But we recovered the body. We can bring some closure to the family and unfortunately for now, that's the best we can do," said Greece Police Chief Patrick Phelan.

A heavy police presence shut down the area near Ridgeway Avenue. Scuba teams spent over two hours in the water before the body was recovered.

Back at the scene on Friday evening, to fish, kayak and walk the park are some of the traditions that Michael Hulsizer and his 6-year-old daughter Aryan take part in daily.

He said with taking precaution, the incident has made him more aware of the dangers along the canal.

“It made me realize that I just have to be safe with being near the water and you always keep an eye on your kids,” said Hulsizer.

 

The investigation is ongoing.