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Two people have been seriously injured after falling from Brighton’s derelict West Pier into the sea this afternoon, prompting a multi-agency emergency response.
Emergency services were called at around 12:30pm following multiple 999 calls reporting individuals in difficulty in the water near the unstable, off-limits pier structure.
Multi-Agency Response
Shoreham Coastguard, Newhaven Coastguard, and RNLI Brighton were all dispatched to the scene. By the time rescue teams arrived, both individuals had made it out of the water, but had sustained serious injuries.
One person was reported to have suffered deep cuts, while the second sustained a suspected dislocated shoulder. Both were treated by paramedics from South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) before being taken to Royal Sussex County Hospital for further care.
Official Statements and Safety Warning
A SECAmb spokesperson said:
“Ambulance crews assessed and treated one person who had been rescued from the water before taking them to Royal Sussex County Hospital for further medical treatment.”
HM Coastguard issued a strong public warning in the aftermath:
“Climbing on old structures in or over water, tombstoning, or jumping into water from height is dangerous.
There’s always a possibility of submerged rocks, metal, or shallow water.
DON’T DO IT – STAY SAFE!”
The West Pier, which has stood derelict for decades, is structurally unsafe and not open to the public. Authorities have repeatedly warned that approaching or climbing the pier poses serious life-threatening risks.
In a coastal emergency, always call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
More updates to follow as the conditions of the two injured individuals are confirmed.
