Police search River Lea Canal Pic: B.W.

A body pulled from a canal in Hackney is thought to be a 17-year-old boy who allegedly jumped into the canal while being chased by police.

Officers were called to an address in Clapton late yesterday afternoon after the family of Jack Susianta expressed concern for his welfare.

Police and firefighters Pic: Gilad McAteer

After seeing police, the teenager smashed a window and fled his home. After an hour of searching, officers located him on Hackney Marshes but he ran once again.

Witnesses described seeing a boy fall into the canal while trying to outrun the police. An officer entered the canal in a rescue attempt but the boy disappeared under the water.

Police enter the canal Pic: Gilad McAteer

The area was searched using dog units, divers and a police helicopter. London Fire Brigade rescue boats and an ambulance were also at the scene.

Police divers later recovered a body from the River Lea Canal. Medics from the London Air Ambulance service pronounced the man dead at the scene.

The body was taken away for post-mortem examination and as yet has not been formally identified.

The Metropolitan Police have referred the incident to the Independent Police Complaints Commission.