A woman in her 50s has died following a massive sea rescue operation off the Hove coastline on Monday evening (14 October).

Major Search Launched After Woman Spotted in Sea

At around 7.50pm, Sussex Police were alerted by HM Coastguard about a woman spotted in the sea. A huge emergency effort swung into action, involving Coastguard rescue teams, RNLI lifeboats from Brighton and Shoreham, and the Lydd-based Coastguard helicopter providing crucial aerial coverage. Police coordinated the multi-agency response from shore.

Rescue Efforts Fail as Woman Pronounced Dead at Scene

Despite frantic attempts to save her, the woman was pulled from the water and sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

“Police were called by the Coastguard at 7.50pm on Monday, October 14, following concerns for a woman in the sea off the coast of Hove. A search was conducted by the Coastguard and RNLI, assisted by police, and a woman in her 50s was recovered from the sea. She was sadly pronounced deceased at the scene.

Her next of kin have been informed and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time. There are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances, and this will now be a matter for the coroner.” – Sussex Police spokesperson

Hours-Long Operation Ends, Coroner Launches Investigation

The Coastguard helicopter and rescue crews remained on site for several hours as the search and recovery wrapped up. Police confirmed there are no suspicious circumstances, with the coroner now leading the investigation.