Overview
- Humberside Police say locating 15-year-old Grace Keeling remains the priority after she was swept into the sea at Withernsea on January 2.
- The bodies of her mother, Sarah Keeling, 45, and passer-by Mark Ratcliffe, 67, who tried to help, were recovered on the evening of the incident.
- Investigators using CCTV and witness accounts believe Grace was swept from steps near rocks, as her mother and three members of the public entered the water to try to rescue her.
- Search operations span the shoreline from Withernsea to Easington with specialist teams deploying drones, an underwater search unit, and guidance from an oceanographer.
- Rescue agencies reported exceptionally large waves and high tides that hindered an immediate lifeboat launch, while police maintain a visible presence, support the families, and ask the public to avoid the area.