An investigation is underway following the tragic death of a 17-year-old boy off West Wittering beach in Chichester yesterday (2 July).
Emergency services, including the Hayling RNLI ILB Lifeboat and HM Coastguard, were called to the beach at around 12:50pm due to concerns for the welfare of the boy in the sea. The situation escalated quickly, leading to a coordinated response from multiple rescue teams. The boy was part of a group from Uxbridge College in London on a school trip.
Despite swift action from emergency services, the boy was airlifted to hospital, where he was sadly confirmed deceased. His next of kin have been informed of the heartbreaking news.
Detective Inspector Darren Taylor expressed his sorrow over the incident: “This was an absolutely tragic incident and I would like to express my sincere condolences to the boy’s loved ones at this heartbreaking time.”
He further explained the ongoing efforts to uncover the circumstances surrounding the tragedy: “A police investigation, supported by the Health and Safety Executive, is underway to establish the full facts.”
Authorities are urging anyone with information that could assist in the investigation to come forward. “We are asking anyone who has any information that could help to contact us online or via 101, quoting Operation Redhill,” said DI Taylor.
