Emergency services were called to Seaview Avenue at 5.35pm on Wednesday 22 July after reports that several people had got into difficulty in the sea. The West Mersea Coastguard Rescue Team responded to what they described as a 'tragic incident'.
Victims and hospitalisation
Essex Police confirmed that a teenage girl and a woman in her 40s died despite the efforts of emergency services. A third person remains in hospital in a serious condition. The individuals involved are believed to have been known to one another, according to investigators.
Emergency response
The RNLI launched its West Mersea and Clacton lifeboats, and helicopters were seen circling above the water during the rescue attempt. Floral tributes were left at the beach on Thursday morning.
Police appeal
Detective Chief Inspector Al Pitcher said: 'Today, our thoughts remain with the family members who are coming to terms with their loss. We are grateful to the people who have already spoken to us and helped with our enquiries. We would ask anyone who was at the beach at the time, and who has not yet spoken with officers, to please get in touch, to help us understand what happened.'
Anyone with information or footage is urged to contact Essex Police on 101, quoting incident 1090.
