Two members of a single family have died after an incident at West Mersea beach near Colchester that left a seven-year-old boy in a critical condition in hospital. Relatives and witnesses described chaotic scenes as people were swept into difficulty in the sea on Wednesday evening.
Eyewitnesses recount frantic rescue attempts
A holidaymaker staying in a nearby beach hut is being praised by onlookers after swimming out multiple times to bring children back to shore. Beverly Smit, 60, who owns a beach hut close to where the incident unfolded, said the man had gone into the water repeatedly to help.
"He saw and they were calling for help and the children and adults were out there. He swam out, I think three times. It's not an easy swim when the tide's coming in, you're swimming against the tide, the water yesterday was particularly quite cold."
Ms Smit said that some of the children brought back by the man were in poor condition and required immediate attention on the shore. Local people assisted as emergency services arrived.
Family devastated — investigation under way
Police have confirmed the deaths of Shally Rahman, 41, and her daughter Samiha Rahman, 15. Officers believe those involved were related and that the mother and daughter were trying to assist a seven-year-old boy, who remains in hospital in a critical condition.
Relatives said the group had come to the coast from east London and Barking for the day. A family member said about ten members of the family were near the water when the situation developed after what was described as a large wave.
Police said they are speaking to "dozens" of people as their enquiries continue. The local coroner and emergency services are involved as part of the ongoing response.
Local context and public safety
Those at the scene stressed how quickly conditions can change on the coast, particularly where tides and cooler sea temperatures increase the risk to swimmers. Nearby residents and beach users have been urged to follow safety guidance and to call 999 if they see anyone in danger in the water.
- Deaths confirmed: Shally Rahman, 41, and Samiha Rahman, 15.
- Injured: Seven-year-old boy in hospital, critical condition.
- Rescuer: Unnamed holidaymaker who swam out multiple times to bring children to shore.
- Police action: Officers speaking to dozens of people as enquiries continue.
| Date | Location | Known casualties/status |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday (evening) | West Mersea beach, near Colchester | Two dead; one child critical in hospital; multiple children rescued |
The victims' family described themselves as "speechless and shocked" and said the mother and daughter were "not very good swimmers." A family friend said the father of the children is a doctor of Bangladeshi heritage.
As inquiries continue, the incident will raise renewed questions about beach safety and public awareness of changing conditions along the Essex coast. Anyone with information or who witnessed the incident has been asked to contact Essex Police to assist their enquiries.
