Following the discovery of a body among the rocks on Withernsea beach on Thursday, 15 January 2026, emergency services and HM Coastguard have now been able to complete the recovery.
Whilst formal identification is yet to take place, Humberside Police say they believe this person to be 15-year-old Grace Keeling who was swept into the sea on Friday, 2 January 2026.
Detective Superintendent Simon Vickers said:
“This was a deeply upsetting incident, and I cannot begin to understand the heartbreak felt by all the loved ones of those involved.
“We have spoken with Grace’s family and updated them, and we are continuing to support them with specially trained officers at this extremely difficult time. Understandably, they have asked for their privacy, and we would ask that this is respected.
“Grace’s body was discovered at around 8.30am on Thursday, 15 January 2026 by Humberside Police Search Advisors during the extensive searches that have continued over the last fourteen days to find her.
“Due to tide times, conditions and the location, despite every effort it was not possible to safely recover Grace before high tide yesterday. This morning (Saturday, 17 January 2026), with the help of HM Coastguard, Humberside Fire and Rescue Service and other specialist assistance, we have been able to safely recover Grace.
“I would like to reiterate my thanks to everyone who offered their assistance and support in the search for Grace, your help is as always very much appreciated.
“Our thoughts and sincere sympathies will always remain with the families of Grace and Sarah Keeling, and Mark Ratcliffe following this utter tragedy.”
