Search Continues For Child In Androscoggin River [UPDATE]

The search is now focused in the water for a 5-year-old who fell into the Androscoggin River yesterday.

Auburn Police say they were called to the river just after 7:00 last night to a report of two children in the water, in the area of Bonney Park. Police confirmed this morning that a 5-year-old boy fell into the water, and his 9-year-old brother went into the water to try and save him. Their 8-year-old sister and father had also tried to pull the boys from the water.

Firefighters managed to get the older boy out of the river near Gagne & Son Concrete on Riverside Drive. He was taken to Central Maine Medical Center and then transported by Life Flight to Maine Medical Center in Portland. Officials said this morning that he remains in critical condition.

The search for the 5-year-old had to be suspended last night due to hazardous conditions on the river. Today, air support has been suspended due to unfavorable weather conditions. The ground searches along the riverbank are completed and the search going forward this afternoon will focus in the water. The search is now considered a recovery effort. Police aren't releasing the boys' names at this time, but say that they had just moved to the area.

Auburn Police are asking that people stay away from the river and not initiate their own searches, as water conditions are very dangerous. One person today who attempted to do a Facebook live while conducting his own search fell into the river, but was unhurt.

We'll update this story as more details become available.