Police in East Yorkshire have confirmed the recovery of a body believed to be that of missing teenager Grace Keeling, who was swept into the sea alongside her mother in a tragic incident earlier this month.
Recovery Operation on Withernsea Beach
The body was discovered among rocks on Withernsea beach at 8.30am on Thursday, 16 January 2026. However, challenging tide times and adverse weather conditions prevented emergency services from immediately recovering the remains. A complex operation involving multiple agencies was required.
Detective Superintendent Simon Vickers of Humberside Police stated: "This morning, with the help of HM Coastguard, Humberside Fire and Rescue Service and other specialist assistance, we have been able to safely recover Grace." He added that while formal identification is pending, police strongly believe the body is that of the 15-year-old.
A Fatal Chain of Events on 2 January
The devastating sequence of events began on 2 January 2026. Grace Keeling, 15, was with a friend on steps near the rocks at Withernsea when a powerful wave swept her into the water. Her mother, 45-year-old Sarah Keeling, witnessed the event and immediately entered the sea in a desperate rescue attempt.
Three other members of the public also rushed to help, including Mark Ratcliffe. Tragically, both Sarah Keeling and Mr Ratcliffe lost their lives during the rescue effort. Grace had remained missing until this week's discovery.
Police Support and Family's Request for Privacy
DS Vickers expressed the profound impact of the incident, saying: "This was a deeply upsetting incident, and I cannot begin to understand the heartbreak felt by all the loved ones of those involved." He confirmed that Grace's family has been updated and is receiving support from specially trained officers.
The family has asked for their privacy to be respected during this extremely difficult time. DS Vickers concluded: "Our thoughts and sincere sympathies will always remain with the families of Grace and Sarah Keeling, and Mark Ratcliffe following this utter tragedy."
The community in Withernsea and across East Yorkshire continues to mourn the loss of three lives in this coastal disaster.
