19-year-old feared dead as search continues off Northumberland coast
An operation's continuing after a kayak capsized near Boulmer
A search is underway for a 19-year-old man who is feared to have died after a kayak capsized off the coast of Northumberland.
Emergency services were alerted by HM Coastguard just after 9.15pm last night (Tuesday 7th July 2026), regarding a man in the water near Boulmer.
The incident involved a kayak with two men. One of them managed to swim to a buoy and was later rescued.
The search for the second man began immediately, with officers involved in the efforts.
Northumbria Police say sadly it is now believed that the second man may have died.
His next of kin have been informed and are being supported by officers.
Chief Inspector Jon Caisley from Northumbria Police said:
“This is a very tragic incident, and our thoughts are with the man’s loved ones at this time.
“We will continue to support them in any way that we can and would ask that their privacy is respected.”
Ch Insp Caisley added:
“Searches continue but due to challenging circumstances, we are not able to provide any timescales around our efforts to recover the man.
“We would like to thank our colleagues with HM Coastguard and all of our partners for their continued support.”
He also urged members of the public not to conduct their own searches and to allow trained professionals to carry out their work for safety reasons.
The news comes as fresh warnings are issued about the dangers posed by open water as the UK experiences its third heatwave in three months.
Fire chiefs are warning about the increasing risk of wildfires
The North East is among the areas covered by a yellow heat health alert.
A stronger amber one is in place for parts of the Midlands and southern England.