A woman in her 60s has tragically died after struggling in the sea at Helen’s Bay, County Down. The incident occurred yesterday afternoon, prompting an urgent rescue operation by emergency teams.
Police, the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, and coastguards responded to distress calls received at around 1pm. The coastguard successfully rescued three people from the water, including the woman who later died. Two other swimmers were also pulled from the sea and rushed to hospital for treatment.
Before the arrival of professional rescuers, quick-thinking beachgoers dived into the water to assist those in distress, demonstrating community bravery during the emergency.
Local MP Alex Easton expressed his condolences, stating, “My thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time. Helen’s Bay is a place many families cherish, which makes this loss all the more heartbreaking. This tragic incident is a reminder of how quickly emergencies can arise around our coastline. I encourage everyone to take care when visiting our beaches.”
Police have confirmed that the death is not being treated as suspicious. This tragedy follows a similar fatal rescue attempt off the coast of Withernsea, East Yorkshire, earlier this year, where two people lost their lives trying to save a teenager amid dangerous sea conditions.
With communities still affected by recent incidents, sea safety warnings remain in place across the UK. Emergency services continue to urge all beach visitors to stay alert, respect hazardous waters, and avoid taking unnecessary risks during sea visits.
Originally published by UKNIP.
