Mother's Emotional Tribute to Toddler Lost in River Soar
The mother of a two-year-old boy who tragically disappeared in the River Soar has paid a moving tribute to her son, describing him as her "whole world" and "soul twin." Kayela Smith spoke publicly for the first time about the devastating loss of her son, Xielo Maruziva, during an inquest at Leicester's City Hall.
Tragic Disappearance During Family Outing
Xielo Maruziva vanished beneath the waters of the River Soar during what should have been a joyful family outing to Aylestone Meadows in February 2024. Despite intensive search operations involving multiple teams and specialist groups, his body was not discovered and retrieved until several months later in June of that year.
The extensive search operation saw numerous teams combing the River Soar area, with experts from Specialist Group International (SGI) joining the efforts to locate the missing toddler. The disappearance prompted a major emergency response that captured national attention.
A Mother's Unbreakable Bond
Kayela Smith, from Humberstone, who gave birth to Xielo when she was 19, delivered an emotional statement about her son. "The day he was born was the best day of my life and every day got better with him," she told the inquest, her words reported by Leicestershire Live.
She described her son as a child who "brought endless joy to all those around him and lit up any room he walked into." Kayela recalled cherishing Xielo's funny expressions and dance moves, alongside their peaceful moments together as mother and son.
"He was my best friend, my soul twin and my whole world," she said. "I miss all the memories we shared. Above all I miss waking up to your beautiful smiling face. The bond we shared was truly one of a kind."
Father's Heartfelt Memories
A second tribute was delivered on behalf of Xielo's father, Bradley Maruziva, who recalled the astonishment and joy he experienced upon learning Kayela was expecting their son. "I was so proud to be his dad," Bradley's statement read. "He will always remain in my heart and loved forever. He gave me a sense of purpose."
Bradley described Xielo as "a really happy baby" who was walking by ten months, which meant he was "everywhere." He spoke of how their energies matched and how Xielo made him feel "like a big kid again."
The father shared memories of their time outdoors, where Xielo delighted in climbing, racing about, and making friends with dogs. Family gatherings were particularly special, with Bradley noting: "He was the cheerleader of the family. He would get everyone clapping with him - he loved a crowd."
A Life Full of Joy and Energy
Both parents remembered Xielo's infectious personality and boundless energy. Bradley described how his son would "spin around and make himself dizzy, sit down and laugh" with an "infectious giggle." He added poignantly: "It was never a quiet or dull moment when Xielo was with us. It seems so quiet now."
Kayela echoed these sentiments, saying her son "had the biggest personality" and that he "gave me purpose and strength." She concluded her tribute with a powerful message to her late child: "My love for you will never fade. You always will be loved, always be missed and never forgotten."
Ongoing Inquest Proceedings
The inquest into Xielo Maruziva's death is expected to run for five days as authorities examine the circumstances surrounding the toddler's disappearance and subsequent discovery. The proceedings continue to explore the timeline of events and the extensive search operations that followed the family's tragic outing to Aylestone Meadows.
The case has highlighted the importance of water safety around rivers and natural waterways, particularly for families with young children. The emotional tributes from both parents serve as a heartbreaking reminder of the profound impact such tragedies have on families and communities.
