German police admit search errors after missing toddler found drowned in Preetz

German authorities have confirmed that the body of a missing three-year-old girl was recovered from a pool on her family's property in Preetz, near Kiel. Preliminary autopsy results determined that the child drowned following her disappearance on Wednesday.

Police admitted to operational shortcomings during the search after officers initially inspected the pool without locating the toddler, before finding her body during subsequent examinations. The recovery concluded an extensive multi-agency operation across the surrounding residential district and adjacent waterways. Investigators stated that there is currently no evidence suggesting third-party involvement in the child's death.

Sources: Der Spiegel, Die Zeit, FAZ