Police in Brighton have announced that they believe they have identified three women whose bodies were discovered in the sea off Brighton beach on Wednesday morning. The development comes as the investigation into the tragic incident continues.
Emergency Response and Discovery
Emergency services, including police officers, coastguard crews, and a helicopter, were called to the seafront near Black Rock car park off Madeira Drive at approximately 5:45 am on Wednesday, May 13, following reports of concern for the welfare of three women in the water. All three women were recovered from the sea and pronounced dead at the scene. It is understood that the women, believed to be aged between 20 and 30, entered the water from the nearby beach before getting into difficulty.
Police Statement on Identification
A Sussex Police spokesperson stated: “Police in Brighton believe they have identified three women whose bodies were found off the beach on Wednesday morning (13 May). Following extensive enquiries, we believe we have now identified all three women. Their next of kin have been informed, and formal identification procedures are now being undertaken. It would not be appropriate to publicly name the women before these procedures are completed. Their loved ones are being supported by specialist officers following their tragic loss.”
Investigation Ongoing
Police have confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine how the women came to be in the water. At this stage, there is no evidence to suggest third-party involvement or criminality. Chief Superintendent Adam Hays commented: “This is an utterly heartbreaking tragedy, and my thoughts are with the loved ones of these three young women after their devastating loss. They will remain at the forefront of our minds as we search for the answers their families, and the wider public, desperately seek. This is a sensitive investigation that includes a number of hypotheses, and it would not be appropriate to speculate as we continue to gather evidence. I would once again ask for the public's patience while we establish the full facts, which will be shared publicly as soon as we are able.”
Appeal for Information
Authorities are urging anyone with information that could assist the investigation to contact police online or via 101, quoting Operation Ledmore. Floral tributes have been left on Brighton beach by members of the public mourning the loss of the three women.
