A woman in her 60s has died following an incident at Helen’s Bay Beach in County Down on Saturday afternoon. The tragedy occurred when three people got into difficulty in the water, the Belfast Coastguard confirmed.
Emergency services were alerted as onlookers attempted to assist. Witnesses reported that one person entered the water in an effort to help those in distress. The response involved a coordinated operation by a Coastguard helicopter, an RNLI lifeboat, and ambulances at Belfast Lough.
The two other individuals who were involved in the incident were taken to hospital for treatment, though their conditions have not been publicly disclosed.
Independent MP for North Down Alex Easton expressed his condolences, describing the event as “tragic.” He said in a statement: “I am deeply saddened to learn of the tragic death of a woman in her 60s following an incident at Helen’s Bay on Saturday afternoon. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.”
The Coastguard has appealed to anyone present at the scene who may have been affected by the incident to contact them for support. Authorities are reviewing the circumstances surrounding the event to determine how it occurred.
Helen’s Bay, located along the scenic Belfast Lough, is a popular destination for walkers, swimmers, and families. Coastguard officials have urged visitors to exercise caution near the water, particularly when tides and weather conditions make swimming or wading hazardous.
Incidents involving beachgoers are rare in the area, but local emergency services regularly remind the public of safety measures, including avoiding entering the water alone, checking tide times, and supervising children and vulnerable adults.
The RNLI has also highlighted the importance of public awareness when near coastal waters. Lifeboat crews noted that rapid action by bystanders, combined with swift emergency response, is often critical in preventing further casualties.
This incident comes as authorities continue to urge beach visitors in Northern Ireland to be vigilant, especially when conditions are unpredictable. The Coastguard’s call for anyone impacted by the event to reach out reflects the physical and emotional toll such incidents can have on both victims and witnesses.
Investigations into the Helen’s Bay incident remain ongoing, as officials work to piece together the sequence of events and provide support to those affected.
