Two men have died after attempting to rescue two children who got into difficulty in the sea at Seaton Carew on Teesside. The incident occurred at approximately 3:45pm on Sunday, July 12, 2026. Both children are now confirmed safe and were taken to hospital for precautionary checks, according to TeessideLive.
Emergency Response and Rescue Attempt
Police were alerted to concerns for two children struggling in the water at Seaton Carew beach. Officers attended alongside the RNLI, Coastguard, and North East Ambulance Service. Two men reportedly entered the water to assist the children. The RNLI recovered the men from the sea, and they received immediate medical treatment, but both were pronounced dead shortly after.
Police and Family Support
Superintendent Glen Ward expressed condolences, stating: "Our deepest sympathies go out to the families of both the men involved in this tragic incident today. Despite the best efforts of emergency services, sadly both men were pronounced dead a short time after being brought out of the sea." He added that enquiries are ongoing but the deaths are not being treated as suspicious, and a file will be prepared for the Coroner. Specially trained officers are supporting the families.
Warning About Open Water Dangers
Superintendent Ward urged the public to avoid open water: "I would like to remind everyone that open water comes with serious risks. We know it is inviting in the hot weather, but we would encourage people to refrain from entering any open water at all. Today we have sadly seen the true tragedy that can happen as a result."
Ambulance and Coastguard Details
A North East Ambulance Service spokesperson said: "We received a call at 3.45pm on Sunday, July 12, to reports of an incident on Seaton Carew beach. We dispatched three ambulance crews, a clinical team leader, a duty officer, three crews from our Hazardous Area Response Team (HART), and requested support from our colleagues at the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) who attended by road. Two patients were taken to North Tees Hospital for further treatment."
Several police and ambulance crews were present in car parks off The Front at the seaside resort. A member of the public captured images of paramedics in 'The Sandy Car Park' while the Coastguard helicopter hovered over the shore. Another witness on North Gare sands recorded footage of the helicopter and a lifeboat. Crowds lined the promenade observing the rescue efforts.
