Musa Ahmed, a seven-year-old boy, has died in the hospital following a beach tragedy in West Mersea, Essex, that also claimed the lives of his 15-year-old cousin and her mother. Musa passed away on the evening of Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at the Royal London Hospital after spending a week in intensive care, his family confirmed. The family stated he died in a state of ease and peace
.
Details of the July 22 Incident
The tragedy occurred on July 22 during a summer holiday day trip to the island near Colchester. The family, who had traveled from east London—with sources citing both Barking and Ilford—were swimming when three adults and three children got into difficulty. According to The Guardian, a heavy incoming tide caused the sand beneath their feet to give way, sweeping them into the water.
Essex Police were alerted by the ambulance service at 5:35 p.m. following reports of people in distress near Seaview Avenue and the Sea View holiday park. Shelina Rahman, 41, and her daughter Sameeha, 15, died at the scene. Reports indicate that the two were attempting to rescue the seven-year-old when they perished. Musa was pulled from the water and airlifted to the hospital with life-threatening injuries. Three other relatives were transported to the hospital by road and are reported to be recovering.
Emergency Response and Community Support
The rescue operation involved the coastguard, RNLI, ambulance service, and air ambulance. Chief Inspector Michelle Sparks, the district commander for Colchester, praised the courage and selflessness
of members of the public who rushed to help. One such individual, Craig Lowe, reportedly made three rescue attempts and helped Musa and another young boy onto a lifeboat before emergency crews arrived.
Detective Chief Inspector Al Pitcher, who is leading the police investigation, described the bravery and strength of the families as humbling
. He stated that police are continuing to speak with key witnesses and are working with the local council, fire service, and coastguard to establish the full circumstances of the event.
Family Background and Tributes
Shelina Rahman was a teacher. Her husband, Dr. Mansur Rahman, is the leader of Jubo Dal UK, the overseas youth wing of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party in Britain. Her father, Mujibur Rahman, is a former vice-president of the same party in Britain.
Musa’s father, Shahin Ahmed, paid tribute to his son on Facebook, stating: He made every person feel special and never failed to bring happiness.
In a joint statement, the family thanked the intensive care unit team at the Royal London Hospital for demonstrating outstanding care and dignity
and thanked the community for their prayers and support.
Calls for Safety Reforms
The incident has led to demands for improved safety measures at West Mersea beach. Shahin Ahmed expressed his agreement with local residents calling for a review of safety protocols, specifically requesting the provision of additional life-saving equipment and clear warning signage
to prevent future tragedies.
In response to these concerns, both West Mersea Town Council and Colchester City Council have confirmed that additional warning signs will be installed. Campaigners have further called for the provision of life jackets and additional water safety precautions.