Three family members drown in Sussex waters, leaving community in shock
Category: U.S. News
Three members of a Palestinian family tragically drowned after encountering difficulties in the sea near Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex, on August 19, 2026. The victims were identified as Hassan El-Khawas, 55, his partner Zeina Alayn, 37, and their 14-year-old daughter Sara El-Khawas. A younger girl from the family remains in hospital in a critically unstable condition.
The incident unfolded around 2:40 PM when emergency services received reports of four individuals struggling in the water close to Shoreham Fort. A large-scale response ensued, involving coastguard crews, RNLI lifeboats, air ambulances, police officers, and paramedics. Chief Superintendent James Collis of Sussex Police confirmed that all four family members were pulled from the water, but three were pronounced dead at the scene.
Witness accounts and CCTV footage reviewed by the police suggest that the family entered the water to swim after arriving from their home in London. The tragedy has drawn attention to the dangers of open water swimming, especially during the current heatwave affecting Europe, which has seen a surge in drowning incidents.
The loss of the El-Khawas family has left the Shoreham community in shock. Residents described an extensive emergency response, with many emergency vehicles and helicopters mobilized to the scene. Local resident Shirley Pumfrey remarked, "I have never seen them do that. The whole road was just full of emergency services." Another resident, Anna Peacock, warned of the area's strong riptides, stating, "It's very inviting to come to the sea, but the tide could carry you out in seconds, and I don't think people have realized that."
In the aftermath of the tragedy, Prime Minister Andy Burnham emphasized the need to recognize the risks associated with open water swimming. He referred to the event as “a terrible family tragedy” and expressed condolences to the family and friends affected by the incident. Burnham highlighted the dangers posed by cold water, which can shock swimmers even on warm days, potentially leading to panic and disorientation.
The Palestinian embassy in London also expressed its sorrow over the deaths, calling it a national tragedy. An embassy official stated that Hassan El-Khawas was a Palestinian refugee from the Rashidieh Camp in Lebanon, a densely populated area known for its challenging living conditions. The embassy is closely monitoring the incident and coordinating with British authorities to ascertain details surrounding the event.
Sussex Police are continuing their investigation into the circumstances of the drownings. Initial findings suggest that the incident was a tragic accident with no third-party involvement. Authorities have stated that there is currently no evidence to support claims that a fishing net was involved in the incident. The police have appealed for witnesses and anyone with video footage related to the event to come forward.
As the investigation proceeds, the local community is grappling with the aftermath of the tragedy. Sara El-Khawas attended Ellen Wilkinson School for Girls in Ealing, where she was remembered as a "sweet girl" who was well-liked by both staff and students. The school expressed its condolences and extended support to her family and friends. The spokesperson stated, "This news will be deeply upsetting for many students, families, and staff."
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has reiterated warnings about the potential dangers of open water swimming. Experts caution that cold water shock can lead to sudden panic, making it difficult for swimmers to stay afloat. They urge individuals to enter the water gradually to acclimatize to the temperature and to be aware of local conditions, including currents and tides.
In the coming days, Sussex Police are expected to release more information as they continue their inquiry into the incident. With the community still reeling, local leaders, including MP Tom Rutland, have expressed their condolences and support for the grieving family. Rutland stated, "I am deeply saddened by the tragic news that three people have died following an incident in the water near Shoreham Fort. My thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have lost their lives, and I know the whole community here in Shoreham will be hoping and praying for the recovery of the young girl receiving medical treatment in hospital."
The A259 road, a main commuter route through the area, was temporarily closed as emergency services responded to the situation, causing disruption to local traffic. As the investigation continues, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant about water safety, particularly during the summer months when swimming incidents tend to increase.
This heartbreaking event serves as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers that can accompany seemingly innocent recreational activities. As the community mourns the loss of the El-Khawas family, it shows the value of safety awareness in and around water.
The Palestinian embassy is set to hold a memorial for the deceased family members, with details to be announced soon. As the community comes together to honor their memory, the hope remains for the recovery of the young girl who continues to fight for her life in the hospital.