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Bodies of three young women pulled from sea off Brighton
Three young women were recovered from the sea off Brighton after concerns were raised for welfare in the early morning. A cordon was set up at Black Rock and police urged the public not to speculate while investigations continue.
Why It Matters
The incident has prompted local concern and a police investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths, affecting the Brighton community and public safety messaging.
Timeline
9 Events
Public and political figures respond with condolences
May 13, 2026
Brighton MP Chris Ward, Brighton & Hove City Council leader Bella Sankey, Brighton Pavilion MP Sian Berry, and Sussex Police Commissioner Katy Bourne issued statements expressing concern and urging careful handling of information.
Community shock and local reactions
May 13, 2026
Local residents expressed shock; sea-swimmer Jilly Francis described the incident as very troubling, while Pam Hinchliffe offered condolences.
Emergency services largely withdraw; three police vans remain
May 13, 2026
Most of the emergency services had left the scene by the afternoon, with three police vans remaining.
Police and crime commissioner urges public to refrain from speculation
May 13, 2026
Sussex police and crime commissioner urged the public to refrain from speculation.
Large cordon around Black Rock Beach established; to remain until at least Wednesday evening
May 13, 2026
A large cordon was put in place around the beach at Black Rock, which will remain until at least Wednesday evening, police said.
Coastguard ends search; not looking for anyone else
May 13, 2026
The coastguard has ended its search and said it was not looking for anyone else.
Bodies of three young women recovered from sea near Madeira Drive
May 13, 2026
The bodies were pulled from the water near Madeira Drive, and have not been identified.
Women first spotted at Brighton Palace Pier before drifting to marina
May 13, 2026
It is understood the women were about 20 to 30 years old and were first spotted at Brighton Palace Pier before drifting to the marina, PA Media reported.
Search launched after concerns raised for welfare of a person in the sea
May 13, 2026
Sussex Police launched a search after concerns were raised for the welfare of a person in the sea at 05:45 BST.