Teenager and woman dead after incident on West Mersea beach
Essex Police believe the people involved in the incident near Seaview Avenue were known to each other
Last updated 40 minutes ago
Essex Police have confirmed the tragic deaths of a teenage girl and a woman in her 40s, following a water-related incident near Seaview Avenue in West Mersea.
The police were alerted by the ambulance service at 5.35 pm on Wednesday, 22nd July, regarding several individuals experiencing difficulties in the water.
Despite efforts from emergency services, the two lives could not be saved.
A third person is currently hospitalised in serious condition.
Detective Chief Inspector Al Pitcher expressed condolences, stating, "Today, our thoughts remain with the family members who are coming to terms with their loss."
Essex Police are appealing for any individuals who were present at the beach during the incident and haven't yet spoken to officers to reach out.
Pitcher emphasised the importance of understanding the incident fully and thanked those who have already contributed to the enquiry.
Authorities believe the individuals involved knew each other.
Bernard Jenkin, the MP for Harwich & North Essex, said on social media: "I am sad and shocked to hear of the serious incident off the beach in #WestMersea. We cannot speculate about what happened, but the response has been fantastic. I thank @HMCoastguard who will have been first on the scene and all the emergency services. We await further news and extend sympathy to all those affected."