A man in his 20s has died, and another remains in a serious but stable condition after the pair got into difficulty in the sea at Cullercoats Beach in North Tyneside. Emergency services launched a major rescue operation on Sunday evening, but despite their efforts, one of the men could not be saved.
What Happened at Cullercoats Beach?
Emergency services were called to Cullercoats Beach at around 6:30 pm on Sunday after reports that two men were in difficulty in the sea.
A large-scale rescue operation involving Northumbria Police, the RNLI, the Coastguard, and other emergency responders was launched. Both men were pulled from the water.
One of the men, aged in his 20s, was pronounced dead at the scene.
What Is the Condition of the Second Man?
The second man, also in his 20s, was taken to hospital.
According to Northumbria Police, he remains in a serious but stable condition while receiving medical treatment.
What Did Witnesses Say About the Incident?
Witnesses described challenging sea conditions at the time of the incident.
One local swimmer, Julie Anne, said the sea had been rough, with waves reaching around three to four feet, and described seeing several people throw a rescue buoy into the water while emergency crews responded.
What Have Police Said?
Chief Inspector Simon Wotton of Northumbria Police described the incident as a tragedy.
“This is an absolutely tragic incident and the thoughts of everyone here at Northumbria Police are with anyone affected by this incident.”
He also thanked the emergency services that took part in the rescue and asked the public to respect the privacy of the victims’ families.
Police confirmed that both men’s next of kin have been informed and are being supported.
What Did the RNLI Say?
An RNLI spokesperson said the charity was tasked by the Coastguard at approximately 6:23 pm on Sunday after reports of a person in the water.
Lifeboat crews launched within minutes and joined a multi-agency rescue operation alongside police, coastguard and other emergency responders.
Is an Investigation Underway?
Authorities have not announced any suspicious circumstances surrounding the incident.
Emergency services continue to establish the full circumstances that led to the two men getting into difficulty in the water.
Water Safety Advice
People visiting beaches are urged to:
- Check weather and sea conditions before entering the water.
- Avoid swimming in rough seas or strong currents.
- Swim at lifeguarded beaches whenever possible.
- Call 999 and ask for the Coastguard if someone is in trouble at sea.
