In a tragic incident during the ongoing Storm Gerrit, three individuals lost their lives after a 4×4 vehicle veered off course and plunged into the River Esk, near Glaisdale in the North York Moors National Park. The emergency services responded swiftly to the scene, but the occupants of the vehicle could not be saved.
The incident unfolded on Thursday morning when a 4×4 vehicle was observed submerged in the River Esk. The North Yorkshire Police were alerted immediately, and upon arrival, it was confirmed that three men were inside the vehicle, tragically declared deceased. Their identities have not yet been publicly disclosed.
A spokesperson for the North Yorkshire Police informed the public that a fourth man who attempted a heroic rescue operation by trying to extract the vehicle from the river has received medical attention and is being treated for his efforts.
The devastating incident was reported at 11:48 am, prompting a rapid response from the fire department, ambulance services, partner agencies, and law enforcement. Air support was also deployed to the location to assist.
The recovery operation of the submerged vehicle was executed by the fire service and completed shortly after 3 pm. Unfortunately, all three occupants inside the 4×4 had already succumbed to the tragedy.
The North Yorkshire Police have initiated the process of informing the next of kin of the victims, and specialized support is being provided to the affected families during this distressing period. More details about the incident are anticipated to be released in the coming days.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has pertinent information to come forward and assist in the investigation. Witnesses are encouraged to contact the North Yorkshire Police at 101, choosing option 4, and referencing the incident under the code NYP-28122023-0146.
