Man dies after being pulled from the sea in Withernsea | UK | News
A 67-year-old man has died following a major rescue operation that left scores of people stranded in “terrible” conditions and lost in waters near Withernsea. Emergency crews rushed to the scene after a group became lost in the water near Withernsea in the East Riding of Yorkshire just after 3pm this afternoon.
Search efforts are continuing as many people are missing after swimmers had problems off the coast of the popular seaside town. However, Humberside Police have confirmed that one person has sadly died. The statement said: “During the initial searches, emergency services pulled an unconscious man from the water. Despite all efforts, we can confirm that a 67-year-old man died at the scene a short time later. The circumstances surrounding his death are not considered suspicious. Searches are still ongoing. As the search continues, residents will continue to see an increased police presence in and around the area. We ask people to please avoid the area so that emergency services can operate efficiently and safely.”
There is now a large emergency presence in place, involving RNLI crews, Humberside Police, Ambulance Service and Fire and Rescue teams.
A large cordon has been set up along the beach and around 100 people from emergency services are participating in the operation.
Rescuers are reportedly battling huge waves and “bitter” conditions off the east coast.
A Coastguard spokesman said: “HM Coastguard is responding to reports made at around 3.10pm about a number of people experiencing difficulties in the water at Withernsea.
“Coastguard Rescue Teams from Withernsea, Hornsea and Hull were dispatched, along with a search and rescue helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft.
“The RNLI’s coastal lifeboat from Withernsea and all-weather lifeboat from Bridlington are assisting as well as Hornsea Coastal Rescue.
“An air ambulance was also dispatched, as well as the Yorkshire Ambulance Service. Humberside Police and Humberside Fire and Rescue are also at the scene.”
Local Darrin Stevens said: BBC the area is a sea of blue lights.
He said: “It’s just blue lights from wall to wall from one side to the other. It’s not a good place to be at sea.
Local vicar Reverend Ian Greenfield added that “these brave men and women here are risking their own lives to save someone who may possibly be at sea.”
