A boy has died following an incident at West Mersea Beach last week which left a teenage girl and her mother dead, Essex Police said. Musa Ahmed died at the Royal London Hospital on Tuesday evening, a week after getting into difficulty in the water at West Mersea Beach in Essex during a family day trip.
The seven-year-old was among six relatives who got into difficulty in the sea on July 22. Sameeha, 15, and her mother, Shelina Rahman, 41, died at the scene, while Musa was rescued from the water and airlifted to hospital. Three other relatives were also taken to hospital which was first reported to Essex Police at 5.35pm. Police said they are recovering.
The group had travelled from Ilford in east London to West Mersea Island, near Colchester, on the morning of the incident.
In a statement, Musa’s family said he died “in a state of ease and peace”.
They added: “We would also like to thank the Royal London Hospital intensive care unit team of doctors and nurses who demonstrated outstanding care and dignity for whilst we have been at the hospital.
“We would also like to thank the whole community for their support and prayers.
“We would appreciate privacy during this very difficult time.”
Musa’s father Shahin Ahmed released a statement early on Monday in which he called for “a review of safety measures” at the site.
“I strongly agree with the calls from local residents for a review of safety measures at West Mersea Beach, including the provision of additional life-saving equipment and clear warning signage,” he said.
“While no action now can undo the pain we are suffering, we hope lessons can be learned to help prevent similar tragedies from happening in the future.”
Detective Chief Inspector Al Pitcher, who is leading the investigation, said: “All our thoughts are with the family and friends of those involved – as has been the case since this incident took place last week.
“Their bravery and strength has been humbling.
“We continue to build a complete picture of the circumstances which led up to this incident and our work is continuing alongside our partners.”