Body found in search for missing 13-year-old Hornsea boy
Extensive search concludes after teenage swimmer went missing
Last updated 6th Aug 2026
A body has been recovered following extensive multi-agency searches for a 13-year-old boy who disappeared while swimming in Hornsea.
Emergency services were called to South Promenade shortly after 6pm on Tuesday, 4th August, upon receiving reports of a concern for the boy's safety.
The body was found around 4.30am on Wednesday, 5th August, after a comprehensive search operation involving Humberside Police officers, the Marine Unit, drone pilots, HM Coastguard, Yorkshire Ambulance Service, and Humberside Fire and Rescue Service.
Although formal identification is still pending, it is believed to be the missing teenager.
Chief Superintendent Phil Booker expressed condolences:
"This is an incredibly heartbreaking outcome, and our thoughts are with the boy’s family and friends at this devastating time."
The boy's family has been informed and is being supported by officers during this difficult period.
Booker noted that the boy’s death is not being treated as suspicious, and a file will be prepared for the Coroner.
He also acknowledged the impact on the community and urged respect for the family's privacy:
“We know the sadness and concern this will cause in the community, and we would ask that the family’s privacy is respected during this incredibly difficult time."
Booker conveyed gratitude to the emergency services and members of the public for their support and cooperation throughout the search effort.
Local response
The MP for Bridlington and The Wolds, Charlie Dewhirst, said: "I am deeply saddened by the heartbreaking news that a body has been found following the search for the missing young boy off the coast of Hornsea.
"My thoughts and prayers are with the child’s family and friends at this truly devastating time."
The Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Hornsea, Cllr Stephen Prescott and Cllr Nick Cox have issued a joint statement in response. They said: "It is with great sadness that we hear of the tragic outcome of the incident in Hornsea.
"Our heartfelt condolences go to the family, friends and loved ones of the teenage boy at this incredibly difficult and heartbreaking time.
"Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this devastating loss."
A Hornsea Inshore Rescue spokesperson said: "Everyone at Hornsea Inshore Rescue would like to express our deepest condolences to the family and friends and all concerned with this tragic incident, and everyone very much remains in all of our thoughts at this sad and difficult time.
"We'd also like to say thank you to Hornsea Tesco who kindly sent down donations of food and water for everyone involved in the search."
Withernsea responds
Town Mayor of Withernsea, Councillor Kristina Richardson, said: "It is with great sadness that we have learned of the tragic loss of the young boy in Hornsea.
"On behalf of the people of Withernsea, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and the entire Hornsea community at this incredibly difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this heartbreaking tragedy.
"Having so recently experienced the devastating losses within our own community, the people of Withernsea understand the profound sorrow that such tragedies bring."