Emergency Search Under Way at Roedean Cliffs After Dog Spotted Alone on Shoreline

Emergency services remain on the scene this afternoon after a search was launched at Roedean Cliffs following reports of a dog seen alone at the water’s edge. Local police, coastguard units and RNLI crews have been coordinating efforts along the shoreline as concerns grow over the dog’s owner. The incident began at around 1:55 pm, when […]

Emergency services remain on the scene this afternoon after a search was launched at Roedean Cliffs following reports of a dog seen alone at the water’s edge. Local police, coastguard units and RNLI crews have been coordinating efforts along the shoreline as concerns grow over the dog’s owner.

The incident began at around 1:55 pm, when members of the public reported a golden retriever on the beach near Roedean cliffs, prompting an immediate multi‑agency response.

Multi‑Agency Response

Sussex Police confirmed that officers, HM Coastguard teams from Shoreham and Newhaven, and the Brighton RNLI lifeboat were deployed to search both the undercliff and coastal waters. Ground and shoreline searches are ongoing as authorities work to determine whether the dog’s owner may be missing or in distress.

A police spokesperson said:

“Emergency services are currently in attendance at the undercliff in Roedean following a report of a dog seen alone at the water’s edge. A ground and water search is under way to identify the owner.”

Public Assistance Requested

The dog has been located and is understood to be a golden retriever. Sussex Police have appealed for public help to identify the owner. Anyone with information is asked to contact 101, quoting reference 838 of 28/01. In emergencies, members of the public are advised to call 999.

Safety and Local Context

The Roedean Cliffs area is known for its dramatic chalk coastline and challenging terrain, where cliff erosion and tides can create hazardous conditions — particularly in winter months. Authorities regularly remind visitors to stay well back from cliff edges and heed all warning signage for public safety.

As this is a live incident, updates will be published as more details become available.