Tragedy Strikes Sussex Coast: Three Family Members Die in Shoreham Water Incident
Shoreham-by-Sea, Sussex – Regular programming on Sky News was dramatically interrupted this afternoon for a breaking news alert, as the nation learned of a devastating incident off the Sussex coast. Three members of the same family – a man, a woman, and a teenage girl – have tragically died after getting into difficulty while swimming near Shoreham Fort.
Sussex Police Chief Superintendent James Collis delivered a solemn statement, confirming the fatalities and outlining the harrowing details of the rescue attempt. At approximately 2:40 PM, emergency services were called to reports of four individuals in distress in the water. Responding swiftly, His Majesty’s Coastguard and the RNLI worked in conjunction with Sussex Police to bring all four people to shore.
"Tragically, despite the best efforts of paramedics, three people, a man, a woman, and a teenage girl, were sadly confirmed deceased," Chief Superintendent Collis announced. He further confirmed that all four individuals were from the same family and that their next of kin have been informed. Specialist officers are now providing support to the grieving family during this "incredibly difficult time."
The Chief Superintendent acknowledged the profound impact this incident would have on the local community. He stated that preliminary investigations suggest the family members had entered the water for a swim before encountering difficulties. An "extensive search" of the water has since been completed, and authorities are not currently looking for any other individuals in connection with the incident.
Chief Superintendent Collis extended his gratitude to the public for their "patience and understanding" during the emergency response, which saw multiple ambulances and two air ambulances descend upon Shoreham near the RNLI station. A section of the A259 in Shoreham was closed to facilitate the emergency services’ operations, with the public urged to avoid the area. Authorities are now appealing for anyone with information or relevant video footage to come forward to assist with the ongoing investigation.
Local MP for Shoreham, Tom Rutland, expressed his deep sorrow at the news in a statement shared on Facebook. "My thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have lost their lives," he wrote, adding, "I know the whole community here in Shoreham will be hoping and praying for the recovery of the young girl receiving medical treatment." The fourth family member, a young girl, is reportedly receiving medical attention, though her condition has not yet been released.
The community of Shoreham-by-Sea is now grappling with the shock and sadness of this unexpected tragedy, as authorities continue their efforts to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the incident.
