The family of an 11-year-old swept out to sea at a notorious Central Coast beach remains hopeful their “beloved boy” will be found.
Laith Alaid was crossing the channel at The Entrance beach with his father and three younger brothers, aged nine, seven and three, when he was washed off its northern side about 5.15pm on Sunday, sparking a large-scale land, air and sea search.
Laith Alaid was swept off a notorious Central Coast beach while on a fishing trip with family.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the boy’s family said it was “deeply moved” by the community support it had received since Sunday.
“We remain hopeful, and we ask the community to stay vigilant for anything that might assist in the search,” the family said.
“Thank you to all the volunteers, emergency services and members of the Central Coast community who have selflessly dedicated their time and resources to search efforts.”
The family asked for privacy as it focused on “finding our beloved boy”.
Laith’s visibly upset father clutches onto one of his other children after unsuccessful attempts to rescue his eldest son.Credit: Seven News
Witnesses said Laith’s father had tried desperately to save his son, who disappeared in minutes.
“We noticed a little boy in the waves with his arm up and the next minute, the boy was gone. We just couldn’t see him,” Sarah Bailey told Nine News on Monday.