Three Sisters Found Dead off Brighton Beach: Investigation Ongoing

05:45 BST on 13 May 2024, crews responded to a call at Black Rock car park, Madeira Drive, Brighton. Bodies recovered were identified as sisters Jane Adetoro, 36, Christina Walter, 32, and Rebecca Walter, 31. Cause of death remains unknown.

The Independent

The sisters were last seen near Madeira Drive around 22:00 BST on 12 May. At 05:45 BST a report triggered police, coastguard and ambulance deployment. Bodies were recovered; later that day Sussex Police released their names and opened an investigation.

Three sisters who died in sea off Brighton beach are named for first time: Father pays emotional tribute to his daughters as police continue probe into their deaths

Sussex Police have reviewed CCTV, conducted enquiries and coordinated with local partners. Detectives found no evidence of third-party involvement or criminality. A Coastguard source noted the steep shoreline, where depth shifts from knee-high to chest-high, a condition that can trap swimmers. This hazard is a primary hypothesis.

Bristol Post

Sussex Police confirmed the victims’ identities and said inquiry remains open. Chief Superintendent Adam Hays expressed sympathy, pledged officers would “leave no stone unturned,” and asked public to respect family’s privacy. Brighton & Hove Council leader Bella Sankey offered condolences. MP Chris Ward called the incident “deeply tragic” and praised the rescue effort.

Three sisters who died in sea off Brighton beach are named for first time: Father pays emotional tribute to his daughters as police continue probe into their deaths

Residents say the steep drop-off near Madeira Drive lacks clear warning signs, raising risk of accidental entry into deep water. Some call for improved safety measures.

Three sisters who died in sea off Brighton beach are named for first time: Father pays emotional tribute to his daughters as police continue probe into their deaths

An HM Coastguard helicopter and rescue teams from Shoreham, Newhaven, Littlehampton and Birling Gap responded. Three RNLI lifeboats, including Brighton’s, were launched around 06:00 BST and stood down after bodies were recovered.

Three sisters who died in sea off Brighton beach are named for first time: Father pays emotional tribute to his daughters as police continue probe into their deaths

Victims: Jane Adetoro (36), Christina Walter (32), Rebecca Walter (31). Location: Madeira Drive, Black Rock car park, Brighton. Call: 05:45 BST, 13 May 2024. Assets: Coastguard helicopter, four rescue teams, three RNLI lifeboats. Investigation: No evidence of third-party involvement; shoreline drop-off hypothesis.

The Independent

Authorities have not confirmed how the sisters entered the water; no forensic evidence of foul play has been reported, leaving cause of death undetermined.

The Independent

• “No words can truly describe the pain of losing three daughters in the prime of their lives.” — Joseph, father

BBC News

• “Police stand on the beach at Black Rock near Brighton Marina where the sisters' bodies were pulled from the water early last Wednesday Chief Superintendent Hays said: 'The thoughts of everyone at Sussex Police are with the family of Jane, Christina and Rebecca following this devastating loss.” — Chief Superintendent Adam Hays, Sussex Police

Three sisters who died in sea off Brighton beach are named for first time: Father pays emotional tribute to his daughters as police continue probe into their deaths

• “I can't think of anything more tragic or more horrendous, really,” — Peter Kyle, MP for Hove and Portslade

The Independent

Sussex Police will continue reviewing CCTV, interviewing witnesses and working with coastguard investigators. Anyone who saw the sisters between 22:00 BST on 12 May and 05:30 BST on 13 May is asked to contact police online or via 101, referencing Operation Ledmore. Safety recommendations for the Brighton shoreline are under review.

Mirror - UK