Mother and daughter die in Essex beach incident
Shelina Rahman, 41, and Sameeha, 15, died after getting into difficulty in the water off Mersea Island.
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A mother and her 15-year-old daughter have died after getting into difficulty in the water off an Essex beach. Shelina Rahman, 41, and Sameeha, 15, were named by Essex Police as the two individuals who lost their lives following the incident on Mersea Island. A seven-year-old boy involved in the same event remains in a critical condition in hospital.
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Essex Police confirmed that six members of a family, comprising three adults and three children, were in the sea on Wednesday, 22 July, when they encountered trouble. The statement indicated that all members of the family made significant efforts to assist one another. Tragically, Shelina Rahman and Sameeha, who were from the Ilford area of London, died as a result of the situation. Several other family members were taken to hospital for treatment and are reportedly recovering.
Ongoing Investigation
Detective Chief Inspector Al Pitcher is leading the investigation into the circumstances that led to the tragedy. He stated that the family had been enjoying a day at the beach together when the incident occurred. Police have spoken to key witnesses and will continue to do so, working with partners including the fire service, local council, and coastguard. Members of the public who assisted the family at the scene have been commended for their courage and selflessness by Chief Inspector Michelle Sparks, District Commander for Colchester.
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The family of Shelina Rahman and Sameeha have requested privacy and asked not to be approached. Essex Police are appealing for anyone who was in the area at the time and has information or footage that could assist their enquiries to contact them on 101, quoting incident reference 1090 of July 22.
Questions this report answers
+What happened to the family at Mersea Island?
Shelina Rahman, 41, and her daughter Sameeha, 15, died after getting into difficulty in the water off Mersea Island. A seven-year-old boy remains in critical condition in hospital following the same incident.
+Who is leading the investigation into the tragedy?
Detective Chief Inspector Al Pitcher is leading the investigation into the circumstances that led to the tragedy. Police are speaking to witnesses and working with partners including the fire service, local council, and coastguard.
+How can the public help with the investigation?
Essex Police are appealing for anyone with information or footage from the area at the time to contact them on 101, quoting incident reference 1090 of July 22. Members of the public who assisted the family have been commended for their courage.
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