Emergency services have recovered a second body from the sea off the East Yorkshire coast, as a major search operation continues for one more person believed to have entered the water.
Emergency Response on Central Promenade
Humberside Police were called to Central Promenade in Withernsea at 3.15pm on Friday, 2 January 2026. The initial call related to a person in difficulty in the water. Upon arrival, emergency services discovered a developing and serious incident.
The first casualty, a 67-year-old man, was pulled from the water unconscious. Despite the efforts of paramedics, he was pronounced dead at the scene. This tragic event marked the beginning of a large-scale coastal emergency response.
Ongoing Search Operation
Later on Friday evening, a second body was recovered from the sea by rescue teams. Police have confirmed that searches are actively continuing for one more individual who is believed to have entered the water on Friday afternoon.
A multi-agency response remains in place, with HM Coastguard, Yorkshire Ambulance Service, and Humberside Fire and Rescue Service all involved in the operation. Their resources are currently focused on the area around Withernsea as they work to locate the missing person.
Community and Coastline Safety
The incident has cast a shadow over the coastal town. While the specific circumstances leading to the individuals entering the water are under investigation, it highlights the ever-present dangers of the sea, especially during the winter months.
The police have urged anyone with information that could assist the search or the investigation to come forward immediately. The thoughts of the emergency services are with the families and friends of those affected by this devastating event.
