Shocking CCTV footage has emerged capturing the terrifying moment a young girl was swept into the sea by a powerful wave on the Yorkshire coast. The incident, which prompted a major emergency response, occurred in Withernsea and was recorded by a camera at a popular seafront café.
Café Owner Hands Vital Footage to Police
Paul Whitehead, the owner of the Castle Café on Withernsea's seafront, described how his premises' security system filmed the horrifying event. He has since provided the crucial video to police officers who are coordinating a large-scale search operation. The footage is believed to show the precise moment the girl was "washed away" by the surging water.
Mr Whitehead's actions have been pivotal in the investigation, offering authorities a clear visual account of the tragedy as it unfolded. The incident happened on Saturday, 3 January 2026, with emergency services launching an immediate and extensive search of the area.
Major Search Operation for Missing Person
Following the initial incident, a desperate rescue attempt was made, which tragically proved fatal for one individual. The search now continues for a third person who remains missing. Coastguard teams, lifeboat crews, and police have been scouring the coastline and waters in a concerted effort to locate them.
The community in Withernsea has been left deeply shaken by the events. The powerful reminder of the sea's danger, especially during winter months, has resonated across the coastal town. Local authorities have reiterated warnings about the risks of approaching the water's edge during rough weather, particularly when large "sneaker waves" can strike without warning.
Coastal Safety Under Scrutiny
This tragic incident has sparked urgent conversations about coastal safety measures and public awareness. While the British coastline offers beautiful vistas, it can also be unpredictably hazardous. Safety campaigners often emphasise the importance of:
- Heeding weather and tide warnings.
- Keeping a safe distance from the water's edge, especially on unstable surfaces.
- Supervising children closely near the sea at all times.
The investigation is ongoing, with police continuing to appeal for any witnesses who have not yet come forward. The thoughts of the local community are with the families of all those affected by this devastating event at the start of the new year.
