family members made "significant efforts to help each other"
A seven-year-old boy who was critically injured in the West Mersea beach tragedy has died in hospital, bringing the death toll from the incident to three.
Musa Ahmed died at the Royal London Hospital on the evening of Tuesday, July 28, 2026, after spending a week in intensive care.
The tragedy unfolded on July 22 when Musa and five members of his family got into difficulty while swimming at West Mersea, near Colchester, Essex.
His aunt, Shally Rahman, and his 15-year-old cousin, Sameeha Rahman, died at the scene despite rescue efforts.
Musa was airlifted to hospital following the incident but sadly did not recover from his injuries.
In a statement, his family said Musa passed away “in a state of ease and peace”.
They also paid tribute to the medical team who cared for him.
The family said: “We would like to thank the doctors and nurses in the intensive care unit at the Royal London Hospital, who demonstrated outstanding care and dignity.
“We would also like to thank the whole community for their support and prayers.”
The family, from Ilford in east London, had travelled to West Mersea for a day trip when the incident occurred.
Three other relatives were also taken to hospital by ambulance following the emergency and are continuing to recover.
Musa’s father, Shahin Ahmed, previously said the family had been caught by a “very strong” tide while in the water.
Essex Police said family members made “significant efforts to help each other” as they struggled in the sea.
Detective Chief Inspector Al Pitcher, who is leading the investigation, extended his condolences following Musa’s death.
He said:
“All our thoughts are with the family and friends of those involved. Their bravery and strength has been humbling.”
Police officers continue to speak with witnesses as they establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
The emergency response involved the RNLI, coastguard, ambulance service and air ambulance, while members of the public also entered the water to help rescue those in difficulty.
Among them was Craig Lowe, who made three rescue attempts and helped Musa and another young boy onto a lifeboat before emergency crews arrived.
Following the tragedy, flowers have been left on the beach in memory of the victims.
The incident has also prompted renewed calls for improved beach safety measures at West Mersea.
Both Colchester City Council and West Mersea Town Council have confirmed that additional warning signs will be installed, while campaigners have also called for life jackets and further water safety precautions to help prevent similar tragedies.
Investigations into the incident remain ongoing.
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