Recovery of Three Women from Sea Off Brighton
The bodies of three women have been recovered from the sea off Brighton. Police initiated a search after concerns were raised for a person’s welfare in the water at 05:45 BST. The identities of the women have not yet been confirmed.
The circumstances leading to the women being in the water remain unknown. The coastguard has concluded its search operation and confirmed that no further individuals are being sought.
Police Response and Investigation
Chief Superintendent Adam Hays described the event as a tragic incident and stated that the investigation is in its initial stages.
"This is a tragic incident. We are at the very early stages of our inquiries."
The bodies were recovered near Madeira Drive, which runs along Brighton’s beachfront.
Sussex Police established a large cordon around the beach area at Black Rock, which is expected to remain in place until at least the evening.
Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner has urged the public to avoid speculation regarding the incident.
By the afternoon, most emergency services had left the scene, with three police vans remaining in the area.
Community Reaction
The incident has caused shock within the local community.
Jilly Francis, a regular sea-swimmer in the vicinity, commented on the situation:
"I live very close by and this is the worst I think I've heard of anything happening.
Today is very rough, so I'd be surprised if they were regular swimmers. I wouldn't swim today because it's too rough, but I normally swim in the summer when it's calmer.
There can be rips or currents, but most of the time this particular bit of the beach is quite safe."
Local resident Pam Hinchliffe, who was visiting the beach, expressed her thoughts:
"It's tragic. My understanding is it was very early in the morning, so you start thinking, 'what could possibly have caused that?' It's a tragedy."
Ongoing Investigation and Official Statements
Chief Superintendent Hays emphasized the priority of identifying the women and notifying their next of kin.
"Our priority right now is to identify all three women and contact their next of kin.
I know this incident will be highly distressing for the community, and we are working hard with our partners to understand exactly what has happened."
Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven MP Chris Ward acknowledged the community’s concern:
"It was understandably very concerning for our community and everyone affected."
Bella Sankey, leader of Brighton & Hove City Council, expressed her condolences:
"I am shocked and deeply saddened.
My heart goes out to the friends and family of these women and on behalf of Brighton & Hove, I send sincere condolences."
Sian Berry, MP for Brighton Pavilion, also shared her sympathies:
"Unbearably sad news this morning. My thoughts are with the families and friends of these three women."
Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne described the event as "awful" and posted on X:
"My thoughts are with the friends and loved ones of the three women who died.
We must allow police to investigate and refrain from speculation at this time."
Contact and Follow-up
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