Heartbreaking new information has come to light regarding the recovery of Grace Keeling’s body after she was swept away by a ‘rogue’ wave along the East Yorkshire coast.
Following an extensive search lasting nearly two weeks, the 15-year-old’s remains were eventually located on Thursday among large rocks used as barriers against coastal erosion.
Initially hindered by the high tide, the fire service faced a time-sensitive challenge to reach her before the risk of her being washed away. Fortunately, they were able to reach her the next day, and she was tenderly carried from the beach by the Coastguards.
Approximately 40 emergency service personnel were present at the scene, observing in silence as the coastguard carefully removed her body. To facilitate the removal, the fire service had to cut a hole in a fence, and a police officer later paid tribute by leaving flowers in her memory.
Her funeral is scheduled to take place next month, alongside her mother, who also tragically passed away in the same incident.
Previous investigations revealed from CCTV footage that Grace and a companion were near the rocks before she fell into the water after being swept by a wave.
Inquests into the deaths of Sarah Keeling, 45, and passerby Mark Ratcliffe, who both lost their lives while attempting to rescue Grace, were initiated and adjourned in Hull on Monday morning.
During the hearing, East Yorkshire area coroner Lorraine Harris disclosed that Ms. Keeling’s primary cause of death was drowning, with head and neck injuries as contributing factors, while Mr. Ratcliffe, 67, succumbed to drowning, with chest injuries listed as contributory causes.
