Shoreham held a vigil to honor a family of three who died after entering the sea off the West Sussex coast. The family, who had traveled from their London home to visit Shoreham on Tuesday, entered the water near Shoreham Fort at approximately 2:00 PM BST.
Sussex Police stated that the investigation into the incident is ongoing. The current hypothesis is that the event was a "tragic accident, with no third-party involvement." Ch Supt James Collis of Sussex Police addressed the death of Saja on Friday evening, saying, "This heartbreaking update is one we all feared in the aftermath of Tuesday's tragic events." He added that the impact of the tragedy has been felt across the country, and the Shoreham community, emergency responders, and all involved will continue to be affected.
The family were British citizens of Palestinian origin with roots in the Rashidieh refugee camp in Lebanon. Their extended family has resided in the UK for many years, according to the Palestinian Forum. Prime Minister Andy Burnham described the incident as a "terrible family tragedy."
A vigil was held to pay respects to the family, with community members gathering to mourn the loss. Reverend Pat Alden spoke at the service.
