Early on 13 May, officers responding to a call about a person in the water near Madeira Drive in Brighton discovered three deceased women in the sea. The tragedy, reported by Sussex Police,has prompted a sensitive investigation focused on identifying the victims and notifying their families.

Bodies recovered near Madeira Drive at 5:45 am

Police were dispatched at approximately 5:45 am after a passer‑by raised concerns about someone in the water. Once on scene, officers found three bodies washed ashore close to the popular promenade. The location, a short stretch of coastline adjacent to the residential area of Madeira Drive, has been cordoned off while forensic teams work.

Sussex Police launch multiple lines of enquiry

In a statement released that evening,Sussex Police said they are “working hard to follow up a number of lines of enquiry to identify the three women and understand exactly what has happened.” The force confirmed that no additional missing persons are being searched for, narrowing the scope to the three victims alone. Investigators are reviewing CCTV footage, speaking with local witnesses, and checking recent missing‑person reports to piece together the circumstances.

Chief Superintendent Adam Hays urges patience

Chief Superintendent Adam Hays addressed the community, noting the impact of the incident on both local residents and the wider public. He asked people to avoid speculation and to allow the police the time needed to complete their enquiries. “I understand the impact this tragic incident has had on the local community and more widely,” Hays said, emphasizing that the priority remains identifying the women and locating their families, who are currently unaware of the loss.

Who were the three women?

The identities of the three deceased remain unknown, and families have not yet been contacted. Police have not released any demographic details such as age or nationality, leaving speculation to fill the void. The lack of information fuels community concern, but officials stress that premature conclusions could hinder the investigation.

What remains unclear about the incident?

Key unanswered points include the cause of death, whetther the women were together or arrived separately, and if any foul play is involved. Sussex Police have not ruled out accidental drowning, but the statement’s emphasis on “multiple lines of enquiry” suggests they are keeping all possibilities open. The investigation is ongoing, and updates are expected as forensic results emerge.