Three women found dead in Brighton sea rescue

Three women, believed to be in their 20s, were recovered from the sea off Brighton early Wednesday after a large-scale emergency response failed to save their lives. Sussex Police confirmed the bodies were found near Black Rock Beach just after 9 a.m., following a search that began just before 6 a.m. when a single person was reported in distress in the water.

Chief Superintendent Adam Hays described the incident as "tragic" and said investigators are working urgently to identify the women and notify their families. "We are at the very early stages of our inquiries," Hays told reporters on the seafront. "Our priority now is to locate their loved ones and provide them with the support they need during this unimaginable time."

Emergency services from Sussex Police, HM Coastguard, and South East Ambulance crews cordoned off the beach as rough seas hampered rescue efforts. Witnesses reported seeing the women near Brighton Palace Pier before they were spotted drifting toward the marina, where they ultimately succumbed to the conditions. A police spokesperson confirmed that no further persons are being sought in connection with the incident.

Local resident Jilly Francis, who swims regularly in the area, said the conditions on Wednesday were unusually rough for the time of year. "I wouldn’t swim today — it’s far too dangerous," she said. "Even in summer, you have to be careful of rips and currents, but today is exceptionally rough." Others expressed shock at the timing, noting the incident occurred in the early hours when the beach is typically quiet.

Brighton & Hove City Council leader Bella Sankey called the tragedy "shocking and deeply saddening," while local MPs Chris Ward and Sian Berry offered condolences to the community. Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne urged the public to avoid speculation and allow the investigation to proceed without interference. "This is an awful incident," Bourne wrote on social media. "Our thoughts are with the families and friends of these women."

1. Police Appeal — Investigators are seeking anyone who may have seen the women near Brighton Palace Pier between 5 a.m. and 7 a.m.
2. Family Contact — Authorities are working to identify the women and notify next of kin before releasing names.
3. Community Support — Local organizations are preparing to offer counseling and assistance to those affected by the tragedy.

As the investigation continues, the beach has reopened to the public, though many remain shaken by the events. The full circumstances surrounding how the women entered the water remain under review, with officers exploring all possible scenarios, including accidental entry and sudden medical emergencies.