Father Speaks of Grief After Losing Wife and Daughter in Drowning Incident
A heartbroken father who lost both his wife and daughter in a drowning incident at a seaside resort has spoken publicly for the first time about his pain. Dr Mansur Rahman, the leader of Jubo Dal UK, the youth wing of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), who resides in Ilford, London, described the loss of his wife Shelina Rahman, a teacher in her 40s, and their 15-year-old daughter Sameeha as a tragic accident.
Details of the Incident
The tragedy occurred on Wednesday, July 24, 2026, at West Mersea beach in Essex. Several people from the same family got into difficulty in the water. According to Detective Chief Inspector Al Pitcher of Essex Police, the mother and daughter were trying to help a seven-year-old boy who had gotten into trouble. The boy was taken to hospital in critical condition, but Shelina and Sameeha could not be revived and were pronounced dead at the scene.
Dr Rahman's Emotional Statement
Through tears, Dr Rahman shared his sorrow: 'It is with profound sadness that I share the heartbreaking news that my beloved daughter and my beloved wife passed away following a tragic accident on Wednesday. By the will of Allah (SWT), they returned to their creator after drowning in the water.' He also expressed gratitude for the community's support: 'I would also like to thank everyone in our community who has called, sent messages, and reached out to support us during this difficult time. I have not been able to answer many phone calls, but please know that I have not intentionally ignored anyone. The overwhelming support, love, and prayers from all of you mean more to us than words can express.'
Funeral and Ongoing Hospitalization
Dr Rahman was seen carrying a coffin at the London funeral for his wife and daughter over the weekend. He added that his nephew remains in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), with his father by his side at the hospital. 'By the grace of God, my elder son, my elder daughter, and some other relatives survived and have returned home safely,' he said.
Police Investigation Underway
Detective Chief Inspector Al Pitcher stated: 'My thoughts, and those of my team, are with the friends and family of the woman and girl who died yesterday. We can now confirm they were a mother and daughter from London and we are supporting their family in what is an unimaginable time. Since yesterday we have been working to establish the circumstances which led up to this incident. At this stage we believe they were trying to help a seven year-old boy who had got into difficulties. The boy was taken to hospital where he remains in a critical condition but the woman and teenage girl, sadly, died. All the people involved in this incident are related to each other.' Police are speaking to dozens of witnesses and urge anyone with information to come forward.
