A seven-year-old boy has died following an incident at West Mersea Beach last week, which also left his teenage cousin and her mother dead, Essex Police said.
Victims identified
Sameeha Rahman, 15, and her mother Shelina Rahman, 41, from Ilford in East London, were in the water along with four other family members – including two adults and two children – when they got into difficulty on July 22. It has now been confirmed that one of the children, Musa Ahmed, has since died, after having been in hospital in critical condition.
Investigation ongoing
Detective Chief Inspector Al Pitcher, who is leading the investigation into the circumstances around the incident, said: "All our thoughts are with the family and friends of those involved – as has been the case since this incident took place last week. Their bravery and strength has been humbling. We continue to build a complete picture of the circumstances which led up to this incident and our work is continuing alongside our partners."
In a statement, the boy's family said: "We would also like to thank the Royal London Hospital intensive care unit team of doctors and nurses who demonstrated outstanding care and dignity for whilst we have been at the hospital. We would also like to thank the whole community for their support and prayers. We would appreciate privacy during this very difficult time."
Community response
Chief Inspector Michelle Sparks, district commander for Colchester, thanked the local community for their response to the incident. "There were members of the public who rushed to help the family and I want to thank them for their courage and selflessness," she said. "Since this tragic incident we have also seen an outpouring of support and sympathy. At times of tragedy you get to see how strong a community is, and we have a fantastic community on Mersea Island, and across the Colchester district."
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 said one patient was transported by air and three taken by road to hospital after the incident at Sea View Holiday Park.
Call for safety review
Musa's father Shahin Ahmed released a statement early on Monday in which he called 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."
