Shally RahmanSamiha Rahman

Mother and teenage daughter from east London drown in day-trip horror; LIVE coverage of the tragedy continues.

A mother and her 15-year-old daughter from east London drowned while attempting to rescue a seven-year-old boy struggling in the water at West Mersea beach, Essex, on Wednesday evening. The boy remains critically ill in the hospital, while the mother and daughter tragically lost their lives.

London Evening Standard London Evening Standard23 July 2026 · 20:38 UTC
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Shally Rahman, 42, and her daughter Samiha, 15, tragically drowned while attempting to save a seven-year-old boy at West Mersea beach on Wednesday evening. The boy is currently in critical condition at the hospital, while the mother and daughter lost their lives in the rescue attempt.12

Family friend Mishba Uddin expressed the community's grief, stating, 'We all feel very bad, my four brothers, my sister... everybody in the UK and back home [in Bangladesh].'

The incident has left the family and friends devastated, as they were all visiting from east London. The tragedy unfolded as the boy got into trouble in the water, prompting the mother and daughter to jump in to help. Despite their efforts, they were unable to survive the dangerous conditions.

This heartbreaking event highlights the risks associated with water activities, especially during family outings. The local community is mourning the loss of Shally and Samiha, who are remembered fondly by those who knew them.

Key Insight
“Relatives described the mother and daughter as a 'working-class family going for a day out,' expressing deep shock. Mishba Uddin said they are from east London, and Matiur Rahman told the BBC, 'We all feel very bad, my four brothers, my sister... everybody in the UK and back home [in Bangladesh].'”
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London Evening StandardLondon Evening Standard
“Shally Rahman, 42, and 15-year-old Samiha died trying to rescue the boy who got into trouble in water off a beach in West Mersea, Essex, on Wednesday evening.”
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