A man has died after falling overboard from a vessel in the English Channel off the coast of East Sussex, authorities have confirmed.
Major Search Operation Launched
HM Coastguard received the initial report at 10.19am on Sunday, 30 November. The alert concerned a person who had gone overboard from a vessel near Newhaven.
A significant multi-agency search was immediately coordinated. Resources dispatched included RNLI lifeboats from both Shoreham and Newhaven, an HM Coastguard rescue helicopter, and a Coastguard fixed-wing aircraft. Two nearby vessels also assisted in the search efforts.
Body Recovered from the Sea
The extensive search, led by the coastguard, resulted in the recovery of a body from the sea. Sussex Police were informed of the incident by the coastguard at 11.40am on Sunday.
A police spokesperson stated: "A search led by the coastguard was carried out and a body was recovered from the sea. The man has been identified and his next-of-kin have been informed. Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time."
Incident Near Offshore Wind Farm
Reports indicate the tragic event is believed to have involved a catamaran in the vicinity of the Rampion Offshore Wind Farm, located off the Newhaven coast.
Police have confirmed that enquiries into the exact circumstances are ongoing. No further details about the victim or the incident are currently available to the public.
The coastguard spokesman concluded by confirming the basic facts of the response, underscoring the scale of the operation launched following the distress call.
