A seven-year-old boy, Musa Ahmed, remains in critical condition following a drowning incident at West Mersea Beach on July 22, which claimed the lives of his 15-year-old cousin, Sameeha Rahman, and her mother, Shelina Rahman, 41. Essex Police confirmed that the family, from the Ilford area in East London, got into difficulty in the water along with three other family members—two adults and one child—who all made significant efforts to help each other.
Family's Efforts and Hospitalizations
All family members subsequently made 'significant efforts to help each other,' Essex Police said on Tuesday. Musa was airlifted to hospital where he remains in a critical condition. Other family members were also taken to hospital and are recovering, the force added.
Police Investigation and Community Response
Detective Chief Inspector Al Pitcher, who leads the investigation, said: 'We are continuing to support Shelina and Sameeha's family through this extremely difficult time. They had been enjoying a family day at the beach together when this tragedy happened.' He added that police are working to establish the circumstances and have spoken to key witnesses, with inquiries ongoing in partnership with the fire service, local council, and coastguard.
Chief Inspector Michelle Sparks, district commander for Colchester, thanked the local community for their response: 'There were members of the public who rushed to help the family and I want to thank them for their courage and selflessness. Since this tragic incident we have also seen an outpouring of support and sympathy.'
Father's Call for Safety Review
Musa's father, Shahin Ahmed, released a statement early on Monday calling for 'a review of safety measures' at the site. 'I strongly agree with the calls from local residents for a review of safety measures at West Mersea Beach, including the provision of additional life-saving equipment and clear warning signage,' he said. 'While no action now can undo the pain we are suffering, we hope lessons can be learned to help prevent similar tragedies from happening in the future.'
Incident Details
Essex Police previously said officers were called by the ambulance service at 5.35pm on July 22 after reports that several people had got into difficulty in the water near Seaview Avenue. The East of England Ambulance Service confirmed one patient was transported by air and three taken by road to hospital after the incident at Sea View Holiday Park.
