A father has spoken of his profound grief after his wife and teenage daughter tragically drowned while on a family trip to West Mersea beach. Shelina Rahman, a teacher in her 40s, and her 15-year-old daughter Sameeha died on Wednesday after getting into difficulty in the water. The incident occurred when a group of relatives, including Dr. Mansur Rahman, his wife, daughter, and nephew, were at the seaside. Dr. Rahman, who leads the UK youth wing of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), shared his devastation in a statement.

A Tragic Accident Unfolds

Speaking through tears, Dr. Rahman confirmed the heartbreaking loss of his wife and daughter. “It is with profound sadness that I share the heartbreaking news that my beloved daughter and my beloved wife passed away following a tragic accident on Wednesday,” he stated. “By the will of Allah (SWT), they returned to their creator after drowning in the water.”

The family had been enjoying a trip to West Mersea beach when the incident unfolded. Initial reports suggest that the mother and daughter entered the water in an attempt to rescue a 7-year-old boy, identified as Dr. Rahman’s nephew, who had gotten into distress. The young boy was successfully rescued but remains in critical condition in the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU), with his father, Dr. Rahman’s cousin, by his side.

Community Support and Gratitude

Dr. Rahman expressed his deep gratitude for the outpouring of support from his community during this unimaginably difficult time. “I would also like to thank everyone in our community who has called, sent messages, and reached out to support us during this difficult time,” he said. He acknowledged that he had been unable to respond to many communications but emphasized that no one was intentionally being ignored. “The overwhelming support, love, and prayers from all of you mean more to us than words can express,” he added.

The funeral for Shelina Rahman and Sameeha Rahman was held over the weekend, where a visibly emotional Dr. Rahman was seen carrying a coffin. The service was attended by family and friends offering their condolences and support.

Survivors and Ongoing Investigation

Fortunately, other members of the family present at the beach, including Dr. Rahman’s elder son, elder daughter, and other relatives, survived the incident and have returned home safely. The focus now shifts to understanding the precise circumstances that led to the tragedy.

Police Appeal for Information

Detective Chief Inspector Al Pitcher, from Essex Police, confirmed the identities of the deceased as a mother and daughter from London. “My thoughts, and those of my team, are with the friends and family of the woman and girl who died yesterday,” he stated. “We can now confirm they were a mother and daughter from London and we are supporting their family in what is an unimaginable time.”

The police are actively investigating the incident. “At this stage, we believe they were trying to help a seven-year-old boy who had got into difficulties,” Detective Chief Inspector Pitcher explained. “The boy was taken to hospital where he remains in a critical condition, but the woman and teenage girl, sadly, died.” He confirmed that all individuals involved in the incident were related to each other.

Investigators are interviewing numerous witnesses to piece together a comprehensive account of the events. “These enquiries are ongoing, and I need anyone who has any information to get in contact,” urged Detective Chief Inspector Pitcher. Emergency services were reportedly in significant numbers at the scene following the incident.

Conclusion

The loss of Shelina Rahman and Sameeha Rahman has sent shockwaves through the community. Their bravery in attempting to save a young relative, tragically resulting in their own deaths, highlights the devastating nature of the incident. As the investigation continues, the family is focused on mourning their loved ones and supporting the recovery of the young boy who remains in critical care. The community’s solidarity offers a measure of comfort to Dr. Rahman and his family during this period of profound sorrow.