Two men die after entering sea to help children in difficulty, police say

Two men have died after going into the sea to try and help two children who had got into difficulty, Cleveland Police said.

The force said that officers were called at around 3.45pm after concerns were raised for two children who had got into difficulty in the water at Seaton Carew beach in Hartlepool.

Two men entered the sea to assist the children, who were taken to hospital to be checked over and are now confirmed to be safe.

RNLI staff brought the men out of the water and they received immediate medical treatment, the police said.

But both men were pronounced dead a short time later.

Superintendent Glen Ward said: “Our deepest sympathies go out to the families of both the men involved in this tragic incident today.

“Despite the best efforts of emergency services, sadly both men were pronounced dead a short time after being brought out of the sea.

“We are conducting enquiries into the circumstances of what happened today, although the deaths are not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner.

“I would like to remind everyone that open water comes with serious risks.

“We know it is inviting in the hot weather, but we would encourage people to refrain from entering any open water at all. Today we have sadly seen the true tragedy that can happen as a result.

“Please take extra care and enjoy the warm weather as safely as possible.”

The force said that specially trained officers were supporting both families.

Published: 12/07/2026 by Radio NewsHub