Archive · 29 Jul 2026
UK Beach Tragedy: Family Loses Three in Drowning Incident
A family was at the beach in Essex when the tide changed suddenly.
The mother and her teenage daughter tried to save the 7-year-old boy but were swept away by strong currents.
The boy was rescued but died days later in the hospital.
The family is mourning the loss of three members and has requested privacy.
Witnesses described the rapidly changing sea conditions and the heroic efforts of bystanders.
The incident has renewed calls for better beach safety measures.
A family of five got into difficulty in strong currents at West Mersea beach in Essex.
The mother, Shelina Rahman (41), and her 15-year-old daughter, Sameeha Rahman, drowned while trying to save the 7-year-old boy.
The boy was rescued and airlifted to the Royal London Hospital but died days later.
Two other relatives sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
Witnesses described rapidly changing sea conditions and the heroic efforts of bystanders.
- Who
- A family of five, including Shelina Rahman, her 15-year-old daughter Sameeha Rahman, and a 7-year-old boy.
- What
- A drowning incident resulting in the deaths of three family members.
- When
- July 22, 2023.
- Where
- West Mersea, Essex, near Seaview Avenue.
- Why
- The family got into difficulty in strong currents and dangerous rip tides while at the beach.
Beach Safety Advocates
Local Authorities
Need for Improved Safety Measures
Beach Safety Advocates
Advocates argue for stronger beach safety measures, including better signage and lifeguard presence, to prevent future tragedies.
Local Authorities
Local authorities state they are already implementing safety measures and that the incident was an unfortunate accident.
- Date of Incident
- July 22
- Location
- West Mersea, Essex
- Victims
- Shelina Rahman (41), Sameeha Rahman (15), unnamed 7-year-old boy
- Rescue Efforts
- Essex Police, Coastguard, ambulance teams, RNLI
- Hospital
- Royal London Hospital
- Incident Number
- 1090 of July 22