Sussex Police launched a major investigation early this morning after three women’s bodies were recovered from the sea near Brighton Beach. Emergency services responded at around 5:45am following reports of a woman in distress near Black Rocks car park on Madeira Drive. Officers found the first body and shortly after recovered two more women close by.
Large Emergency Response
The beach was cordoned off throughout the morning during a significant police operation, with the scene reopening later and officers leaving after Coastguard teams completed extensive water searches. An HM Coastguard helicopter and multiple RNLI crews from Brighton and Shoreham took part in the search effort.
Victim Identification Priority
Chief Superintendent Adam Hays emphasised the priority was identifying the three women, believed to be in their late teens or early twenties, and contacting their next of kin who are yet to be informed. He urged the public to be patient and avoid speculation while inquiries continue, including reviewing CCTV and gathering evidence from the surrounding area.
Unclear Circumstances
Police remain uncertain how the women ended up in the sea or what their activities were the previous night. Witnesses reported Brighton Beach was busy Tuesday night with many revellers spilling onto the esplanade, where a popular student event at the Quarters club closes around 4am.
Community Shock And Appeal
Brighton and Hove City Council leader Bella Sankey expressed shock and sadness over the deaths, offering condolences to the families and friends. Police are appealing for anyone who saw unusual activity overnight or has information related to the incident to come forward, quoting Operation Ledmore on report lines. Members of the public can contact Sussex Police via 101 or online with any details.
