Police have made a grim discovery on a beach in their search for missing teenager, Grace Keeling. The 15-year-old has remained unaccounted for since falling into the water at Withernsea, Yorkshire, on January 2. Her mother, Sarah Keeling, and passerby Mark Ratcliffe, both tragically lost their lives in an attempt to rescue her. Mr. Ratcliffe was found unconscious during the initial search, while Keeling’s body was recovered by HM Coastguard several days later.
Grace and a friend were near the rocks when she is believed to have been swept into the water by a wave. Just moments before the incident, the teen disappeared as 12-foot waves crashed against the promenade where she and her mother were observing the sea.
Humberside Police have now confirmed the discovery of a body. Emergency services and HM Coastguard are present at the scene, working on the delicate task of recovering the body from the rocks. Although the body was found on Thursday morning, the recovery operation has been delayed due to tide conditions.
Detective Superintendent Simon Vickers of Humberside Police stated that despite efforts, a safe recovery was not feasible before high tide due to the location and conditions. While formal identification is pending, the discovery aligns with the search for Grace Keeling, who went missing on January 2.
The police have reassured the public of their dedicated efforts to carry out the recovery safely and promptly. Specialized teams have been in contact with Grace’s family to inform them of the discovery and have requested privacy and respect during this difficult time. The public is urged to avoid the area to facilitate the work of emergency services.
Inquests into the deaths of Sarah Keeling and Mark Ratcliffe have been commenced and adjourned at Hull Coroners’ Court. The coroner reported that drowning was the primary cause of death for both victims, with additional injuries contributing to the tragic outcome. The hearings were brief, and further proceedings are yet to be scheduled.
Mark Ratcliffe’s family paid tribute to him, describing him as a selfless hero whose courageous act tragically ended his life. They expressed profound grief at the loss of a beloved family member, praising his caring nature and the positive impact he had on many lives.