Three women whose bodies were recovered from the water off Brighton beach have been named by police as sisters from the Uxbridge area of London.
Victims Identified
Sussex Police confirmed the identities of Jane Adetoro, 36, Christina Walter, 32, and Rebecca Walter, 31, all from the Uxbridge area. Emergency services were called at around 5.45am on Wednesday after concerns were raised for a woman's welfare. Three bodies were subsequently pulled from the water near Brighton's Madeira Drive.
Investigation Underway
A major police investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances of their deaths. Earlier today, investigators said they were working on multiple theories. Locals in Brighton fear the women may have been swept away after paddling out to sea and falling off a coastal shelf into deeper water.
Police and coastguard officials were stationed along the seafront and on the shingle beach during the morning, with a lifeboat seen at sea and a helicopter overhead. The sea appeared choppy, with waves crashing against the marina wall.
Police Statement
In a statement on Wednesday evening, Sussex Police Chief Superintendent Adam Hays said the priority had been to identify the women. “I understand the impact this tragic incident has had on the local community and more widely. This is a sensitive investigation and we know the public are keen to understand the full circumstances. But our priority at this time is identifying these three women and locating their families, who at this point remain unaware they have lost loved ones. I would ask for people’s patience while we conduct these enquiries and to avoid speculation while this is ongoing.”
Council Leader's Response
The leader of Brighton and Hove City Council, Bella Sankey, expressed her shock and sadness. In a statement, she said: “I am shocked and deeply saddened to hear of the deaths of three women off the Brighton coast this morning. My heart goes out to the friends and family of these women, and on behalf of Brighton and Hove I send sincere condolences. I would also like to thank the emergency services for their quick response and combined efforts; it is heartbreaking that their recovery efforts have ended in such tragic circumstances.”
