Chief Superintendent Adam Hays stated that "This is a tragic incident," emphasizing the early stages of their inquiries. He urged the public to refrain from speculation while emergency services work to identify the deceased and understand what had happened to them. The search began after concerns for three women in the water were raised at 5:45 AM, with the bodies found near Madeira Drive.
Sussex Police have launched a fast-moving investigation into this incident. At the scene, a large cordon was set up around Black Rock beachfront and will remain until later today to ensure safety and facilitate the ongoing inquiry. HM Coastguard and RNLI crews were also deployed but their search efforts ended as no other individuals were being sought.
More updates are expected from Sussex Police on this developing story. The community is advised to stay informed through official channels for further information and guidance during this difficult time.
This article was produced by AVALW News on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 based on reporting from 5 verified news sources. Our editorial process cross-references facts from multiple independent outlets to deliver accurate, comprehensive coverage. All original sources are linked below.