Police have made a grim discovery on a beach while searching for missing teenager Grace Keeling. The 15-year-old remains unaccounted for after falling into the water at Withernsea, Yorkshire, on January 2. Following the tragic incident, where her mother, Sarah Keeling, 45, and passerby Mark Ratcliffe, 67, attempted to rescue her and lost their lives, efforts have been ongoing to locate Grace.
Grace and a companion were near the rocks when she disappeared into the water after being swept by a wave. The incident occurred while they were observing the waves from the steps, with Grace suddenly vanishing as large waves hit the promenade.
Humberside Police have now confirmed the discovery of a body. Emergency services, along with HM Coastguard, are present at the scene, working on the delicate process of recovering the body from the rocks. Despite the find being made on Thursday morning, challenges related to tide times and conditions have delayed immediate recovery efforts.
Detective Superintendent Simon Vickers of Humberside Police stated that a body was found by police search advisors on Thursday morning but due to unfavorable tide times and conditions, a safe recovery was not feasible before high tide. Security measures have been put in place around the area, with specialist teams working tirelessly to recover the body in complex circumstances.
While no formal identification has been made yet, the discovery follows the search for Grace Keeling, who went missing on January 2. The police are urging the public to respect the family’s privacy and avoid speculation. Updates on the situation will be provided as progress is made.
Inquests into the deaths of Sarah and Mark have been opened and adjourned at Hull Coroners’ Court. The coroner revealed that drowning was the primary cause of death for both individuals, with additional contributing factors. Tributes have poured in for Mark, describing him as a selfless hero who tragically lost his life while trying to save others.
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