Search Launched for Man in Distress on Selsey Beach
An urgent rescue operation involving police, paramedics, HM Coastguard, and the Selsey Lifeboat was launched yesterday afternoon following reports of a man in distress at Selsey beach in Chichester.
The alarm was raised at approximately 12:30 PM on Sunday, December 1, when witnesses reported seeing a man described as being between 20 and 30 years old, with black hair and tattoos on his wrists, standing in the water near Kingsway. According to Sussex Police, the man, dressed in a blue top and black trousers, was later observed exiting the water in apparent distress.
Selsey Lifeboat Joins Search Effort
The Selsey Lifeboat was launched at 1:10 PM to assist with the search and conducted a thorough shoreline sweep in coordination with HM Coastguard and other emergency teams. The combined effort included aerial surveillance by a Coastguard helicopter, as well as paramedics and officers scouring the area by land and sea.
A spokesperson for Sussex Police provided an update on the situation:
“Police are appealing for information following welfare concerns for a man seen on the beach in Selsey, Chichester. Emergency services responded to a report at around 12:30 PM on Sunday (December 1), after a man was seen standing in the water at Selsey beach, adjacent to Kingsway.”
The statement continued:
“Police received a further report that the man had been seen exiting the water in distress. An extensive search of the water and surrounding areas was undertaken by HM Coastguard, Selsey Lifeboat, and officers, which has since concluded. Further enquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances.”
Appeal for Public Assistance
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Witnesses who may have seen the man entering or exiting the water are asked to contact the police either online or by calling 101, quoting reference number 521 of 1/12.
The incident drew significant local attention, with many residents expressing concern as the coordinated rescue unfolded. One local witness shared, “The sight of the lifeboat and helicopter searching was worrying. We’re all hoping the man is found safe.”
Despite the extensive effort, the man’s current whereabouts remain unknown. Investigators are working to piece together the timeline of events, emphasizing the importance of public cooperation in gathering details.
