Two people who died after getting into difficulty in the sea off Mersea Island have been named by Essex Police as Shelina Rahman, 41, and her daughter Sameeha, 15, both from the Ilford area of London. The force said the pair were part of a family group who entered the water on Wednesday 22 July.
Family day out ends in tragedy
Police said a total of six family members — described as three adults and three children — were in the sea when they got into difficulty. All members of the group made significant efforts to assist one another, but Shelina and Sameeha were later confirmed to have died.
“They had been enjoying a family day at the beach together when this tragedy happened,”
The force added that a seven-year-old boy was flown to a nearby hospital and remains in a critical condition. A number of other family members were also taken to hospital for treatment and are recovering.
Investigation and community response
Detective Chief Inspector Al Pitcher is leading the inquiry. Officers have been speaking to key witnesses and will continue enquiries in the coming days. Essex Police said it is working with partner agencies, including the fire service, the local council and the coastguard, as part of the investigation.
Chief Inspector Michelle Sparks, the Colchester district commander, thanked members of the public who assisted at the scene and noted an outpouring of sympathy from the community. Specialist officers are supporting the family.
Practical information for beachgoers
While enquiries continue into the precise circumstances that led to the incident, the case is a reminder of risks associated with entering open water. People visiting coastal locations should be aware of tides, undertows and changing weather conditions, and follow any local safety advice.
- Confirmed fatalities: Shelina Rahman, 41, and Sameeha, 15.
- Other casualties: one seven-year-old in critical condition and several family members treated and recovering in hospital.
- Investigation lead: Detective Chief Inspector Al Pitcher.
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Adults in water | 3 |
| Children in water | 3 |
| Fatalities | 2 |
| Critical condition | 1 (seven-year-old) |
Essex Police have asked anyone with information or relevant footage to come forward to assist their enquiries. As the investigation proceeds, further updates will be provided by the force.
