Three women tragically pulled out of sea in Brighton have been identified

Investigations are underway after the bodies of three women were discovered in the sea near Brighton Marina on Wednesday (13 May).

Emergency services were called to the beach near Black Rock car park off Madeira Drive following concerns for a woman’s welfare at around 5.45am, before the three bodies were pulled from the water.

It is thought that the group may have entered the water from the beach near where they were found in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

The women, who were understood to be between 20 and 30 years old, have now been identified, according to Sussex Police, who said 'there is no evidence to suggest third-party involvement or criminality'.

"Following extensive enquiries, we believe we have now identified all three women.

Police are looking into how the bodies of the three women in their 20s were found close to the Brighton Marina in the early hours (PA)

"Their next of kin have been informed and formal identification procedures are now being undertaken," the force said.

"It would not be appropriate to publicly name the women before these procedures are completed. Their loved ones are being supported by specialist officers following their tragic loss.

"An investigation is ongoing to understand how all three women came to be in the water."

'An utterly heartbreaking tragedy'

Contrary to some reports, the Press Association understands that the women did not attend Quarters nightclub off Kings Road beforehand.

A local, who was feeding birds near the scene at 6.00am, told The Sun: “It was extremely windy, cold and choppy in the water.

“I’m not sure why anyone would have been in the sea. What’s happened is awful.”

Another said: “It’s absolutely tragic. I heard they were found close to the shore and pulled out, but nothing could be done to save them.

Emergency services were called on Wednesday morning (PA)

“There were loads of ambulances and police here from very early.

“It is very, very windy and there is a strong current that pushes people east from the pier.”

Chief Superintendent Adam Hays called it 'an utterly heartbreaking tragedy' and said that his 'thoughts are with the loved ones of these three young women after their devastating loss'.

“They will remain at the forefront of our minds as we search for the answers their families, and the wider public, desperately seek,” Hays said.

“This is a sensitive investigation that includes a number of hypotheses, and it would not be appropriate to speculate as we to continue to gather evidence.

“I would once again ask for the public’s patience while we establish the full facts, which will be shared publicly as soon as we are able.”

Investigations remain ongoing (PA)

Bella Sankey, the leader of Brighton and Hove City Council, said her heart goes out to everyone affected by the tragedy.

“I am shocked and deeply saddened to hear of the deaths of three women off the Brighton coast this morning,” Sankey said.

“My heart goes out to the friends and family of these women, and on behalf of Brighton and Hove I send sincere condolences.

“I would also like to thank the emergency services for their quick response and combined efforts; it is heartbreaking that their recovery efforts have ended in such tragic circumstances.”

Anyone with information that could help is asked to contact the police online or via 101, quoting 'Operation Ledmore'.

LADbible Group has contacted Sussex Police for an update.