TWO men died after trying to help two children who had got into difficulty in the water at Seaton Carew beach.
Police officers were quickly at the incident – which happened at around 3.45pm on Sunday – along with RNLI, Coastguard and North East Ambulance Service colleagues.
A spokesman for Cleveland Police said: “Two men were reported to have gone into the water to assist the children. Both children are now confirmed to be safe, and were taken to hospital to be checked over. The men were brought out of the water by the RNLI and received immediate medical treatment but sadly, both were pronounced dead a short time later.”
Specially trained officers are supporting both families at this extremely difficult time.
Superintendent Glen Ward said: “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. We are conducting enquiries into the circumstances of what happened today, although the deaths are not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the Coroner.”
He added: “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. Please take extra care and enjoy the warm weather as safely as possible.”
Author: Amie
Author of Amie's World, Amie works on Hartlepool Life's social media pages, covers advertorials, writes the occasional feature and news story!