A tragic incident occurred at Mersea beach, Essex, where a mother and daughter lost their lives due to a powerful tide, as described by a family member. Teacher Shelina Rahman, 41, and her 15-year-old daughter, Sameeha, got into difficulty in the water while trying to rescue Sameeha’s seven-year-old cousin, Musa Rahman. Musa is currently in critical condition in the hospital. The family was just about to leave the beach when the tragedy unfolded.
The family was among 40 individuals who have drowned in open water in the UK since May 24, coinciding with multiple heatwaves. The Mirror’s Save Lives for Sam campaign is urging the Government to take immediate action after these distressing incidents.
The incident took place on Mersea Island, known for its unique location affected by changing tides. Mr. Shahin Ahmed, the father present during the tragedy, recounted the events, mentioning how they were hit by a strong tide just before they were set to leave.
Mr. Ahmed, alongside 12 family members, was at the beach when the distress occurred. Bystanders, including Craig Bowe, helped rescue the family from the water. The Bowe couple made efforts to resuscitate Shelina and Sameeha on the shore.
Dr. Mansur Rahman, the husband of Shelina and father of Sameeha, expressed his grief over the loss of his loved ones. He thanked the community for their support during this difficult time, acknowledging the outpouring of love and prayers.
The tragic accident serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by open water, especially during the summer months. The family’s story highlights the importance of water safety and the need for swift action to prevent further tragedies.