Very strong tide led to drownings, relative says
Tragedy at West Mersea: Very Strong Tide Led to Drownings
Constantvpn.com – A mother and daughter who tragically drowned off the Essex coast were swept out to sea by a very strong tide led to drownings, according to a grieving relative. Shahin Ahmed revealed that six members of his family were enjoying a day of paddling at West Mersea beach when they were suddenly knocked off their feet by powerful waves on Wednesday afternoon. The devastating incident claimed the lives of Shelina Rahman, 41, and her 15-year-old daughter Sameeha, while Ahmed’s seven-year-old son Musa was airlifted to hospital in critical condition.
Ahmed shared that his son, who resides in east London, remained on a life support machine at a London hospital following the emergency. Three other family members were also transported to a separate hospital by ambulance after the harrowing incident. The Ahmed family, consisting of 12 people, had been visiting West Mersea that day to enjoy the coastal scenery and water activities together.
Family Recounts the Moment of Tragedy
"This was 20 minutes before we were going to go home. The whole day, alhamdulillah (praise be to God), was really nice," Ahmed told Bangladeshi newspaper Surma News. The family had been having an enjoyable day when the weather conditions suddenly changed. Ahmed explained that the waves were "quite small" when members of his group paddled with "their legs in the water", creating a peaceful atmosphere that was shattered in moments.
"One tide, when it hit them hard all of them their feet went off… And this is where the panic mode started," Ahmed recalled, describing how the powerful current caught everyone off guard.
Ahmed, who was busy packing the car up at the time, said he was alerted to the drowning and rushed back to the beach in desperation. "I went straight in to try and swim – I couldn't. It kept on pushing me back," he added, illustrating the strength of the water that had caused such devastation.
Community Response and Safety Concerns
Bystanders – including Craig Lowe, who made three rescue attempts – sprung into action as the tragedy unfolded, administering CPR to the Rahmans. Flowers were left on the beach in the aftermath of the emergency as the community mourned the loss. Ahmed hailed their "amazing" response and offered his heartfelt thanks to Lowe, who he credited with preventing further deaths during the chaotic scene.
Det Ch Insp Al Pitcher, of Essex Police, previously said the Rahmans were "trying to help" Musa after he "got into difficulties" in the water, highlighting that the mother and daughter were attempting to rescue the young boy when they were swept away. Ahmed said there was inadequate signage at the beach warning of the water's danger, and both Colchester City Council and West Mersea Town Council confirmed that water safety signs were going to be installed in due course.
Beach Safety FAQ
Q: What causes dangerous tides at West Mersea beach? A: West Mersea is located on the River Colne estuary, where tidal changes can be rapid and powerful, particularly during spring tides or when weather conditions combine to create stronger currents.
Q: Are there lifeguards at West Mersea beach? A: Lifeguard coverage varies by season and weather conditions. Visitors should always check current availability before swimming.
Q: What safety measures are being implemented? A: Both Colchester City Council and West Mersea Town Council have committed to installing additional water safety signs following this tragedy.
Q: Where should visitors report safety concerns? A: Visitors can contact West Mersea Town Council or Colchester City Council directly, or report to beach wardens if present.
For more local news coverage, visit our BBC Essex news page for ongoing updates on this story and other regional developments.
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