Two heroes die saving children from the sea at Seaton Carew
Two men have lost their lives in a tragic act of selflessness after plunging into the sea at Seaton Carew to rescue two children struggling in the water. The incident, which unfolded at around 3.45pm on Sunday, July 12, has left a community in mourning and reignited warnings about the dangers of open water.
Police, alongside the RNLI, Coastguard, and North East Ambulance Service, rushed to the popular beach on the North East coast. The two youngsters were pulled to safety and taken to hospital for precautionary checks. But the men who went to their aid were recovered from the water by the RNLI and, despite urgent medical treatment, were pronounced dead shortly afterwards.
Superintendent Glen Ward of Cleveland Police expressed the force's deepest sympathies, saying: 'Our deepest sympathies go out to the families of both the men involved in this tragic incident today. Despite the best efforts of emergency services, sadly both men were pronounced dead a short time after being brought out of the sea.' He confirmed that the deaths are not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the Coroner.
The tragedy has prompted a stark reminder from police about the perils of open water, especially during hot weather. 'We know it is inviting in the hot weather, but we would encourage people to refrain from entering any open water at all. Today we have sadly seen the true tragedy that can happen as a result,' Ward added.
Witnesses described a scene of frantic activity as emergency services converged on the area. A red and white Coastguard helicopter circled above the shoreline, while a lifeboat passed by. Large numbers of onlookers gathered along the promenade, watching as paramedics worked in what locals call 'The Sandy Car Park'.
The North East Ambulance Service dispatched three ambulance crews, a clinical team leader, a duty officer, three crews from its Hazardous Area Response Team, and requested support from the Great North Air Ambulance Service, which attended by road. Two patients were taken to North Tees Hospital for further treatment.
Specialist officers are now providing support to the families of the two men, who gave their lives in a desperate bid to save the children. This is a sombre reminder that the British coastline, for all its beauty, can be treacherous. Our thoughts are with the families and the community of Seaton Carew.
What are the dangers of open water in hot weather?
Open water can be deceptively dangerous, even for strong swimmers. Cold water shock, hidden currents, and sudden changes in depth can catch anyone off guard. Police and the RNLI urge the public to avoid entering open water altogether, especially during heatwaves when the temptation to cool off is strong.
How did emergency services respond to the incident?
Emergency services were on the scene within minutes of the 3.45pm call. The RNLI recovered the two men from the water, but despite the best efforts of paramedics and air ambulance crews, they could not be saved. A multi-agency response included police, coastguard, ambulance crews, and the Great North Air Ambulance Service.
What support is being offered to the families?
Specialist officers are providing support to both families during this incredibly distressing period. The police have also prepared a file for the Coroner, though the deaths are not being treated as suspicious.