German police admit search errors after missing toddler found dead in pool

German authorities have confirmed that a three-year-old girl who went missing in Preetz, near Kiel, died by drowning after her body was recovered from a pool on her family's property.

Police acknowledged operational errors during the search operation, noting that officers initially inspected the pool area without discovering the child. Her body was located during a subsequent detailed examination of the structure. Investigators had previously conducted extensive search efforts across the surrounding neighborhood and nearby bodies of water.

Preliminary autopsy results released by officials confirmed drowning as the cause of death. Authorities stated that there is currently no evidence indicating third-party involvement or foul play.

Sources: Der Spiegel, Die Zeit, FAZ