Chester, Pennsylvania – A search for 6-year-old Lin’ajah Brooker, who was swept away in a rain-swollen creek over the weekend, has now shifted to a recovery operation. Crews are diligently working to find her in southeastern Pennsylvania.

Authorities reported Brooker missing after she fell into fast-moving Chester Creek near 8th Street. Despite hours of searching by fire companies and the Coast Guard, the rescue mission transitioned to recovery after the realization that the child could not have survived in the cold, swift waters.

Boats equipped with thermal imaging technology have been deployed to scan the water, while crews carefully combed through debris and surrounding trees. Chester Fire Commissioner John-Paul Shirley emphasized the challenges responders face due to the hazardous conditions in the water.

As of Sunday, the search efforts have turned into a recovery operation, with boats and drones scouring both the creek and the Delaware River where it flows into it. Brooker’s family remains hopeful while preparing to remember her vibrant spirit.

Brooker’s grandmother expressed her emotional turmoil, stating that her thoughts are solely consumed with finding the young girl. Meanwhile, investigators shared that Brooker was playing near the creek with two other children when the incident occurred.

Despite the desperate attempt by family members to rescue Brooker, she was swept away by the strong currents. The tragic event has brought the community together in solidarity, with Mayor Stefan Roots expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support and prayers from across the nation.

The family reminisces about Brooker’s joyful presence, describing her as a unique and beloved individual who had a passion for dancing. In a poignant twist of fate, the family is also mourning Brooker’s sister, who passed away on the same day five years ago.

Authorities plan to conduct a final search of the creek using sonar technology, in collaboration with the Pennsylvania State Police. The devastating incident occurred after heavy rainfall caused flooding in parts of the Philadelphia region, leading to temporary road closures.

Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to contact the police promptly as the community continues to grapple with the tragic loss of a young life.