Humberside Police confirmed that Sarah Keeling, 45, and her daughter Grace Keeling, 15, encountered difficulties in the water at Withernsea on Friday afternoon. Emergency services were called to Central Promenade at around 3.15pm after reports of people in distress in the sea.
Sarah Keeling and a 67-year-old man, later named as Mark Ratcliffe, were pronounced dead after being recovered from the water. Mr Ratcliffe, who was not known to the family, is believed to have entered the sea in an attempt to help during the incident. Searches are continuing for Grace Keeling.
In a statement issued on Sunday, police said: “Following reports of concerns for the safety of people in the water in Withernsea, and with the permission of the family, we can confirm that 45-year-old Sarah Keeling and her daughter, 15-year-old Grace Keeling, were involved in this tragic incident, alongside 67-year-old Mark Ratcliffe, a member of the public who died while trying to assist.”
The force added that the family of Sarah and Grace Keeling is being supported by specially trained officers. An increased police presence remains in the area as search efforts continue for the missing teenager.
Mr Ratcliffe’s family paid tribute to him, describing him as a “selfless hero with a heart of gold” who lost his life while trying to help others.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes at the seafront as the incident unfolded. One onlooker told reporters they saw a teenage girl swept away by strong waves as people onshore attempted to assist.
Local charity Hornsea Inshore Rescue said it was initially unable to launch its lifeboat due to severe sea conditions, including waves of up to three metres. The charity later confirmed that it was able to launch as part of the ongoing response.
Police have urged the public to avoid speculation while the search continues and have reiterated warnings about the dangers of entering the sea in hazardous conditions.
