Search Suspended After Report of Person in Water Off West Wittering

An extensive multi-agency search operation was launched off the coast of West Wittering today (Tuesday, 8 July) following reports of a person in the water just after 11.30am. HM Coastguard coordinated a large-scale response, deploying multiple rescue assets including Coastguard rescue teams from Selsey and Littlehampton, lifeboats from Hayling Island and Selsey, search and rescue […]

An extensive multi-agency search operation was launched off the coast of West Wittering today (Tuesday, 8 July) following reports of a person in the water just after 11.30am.

HM Coastguard coordinated a large-scale response, deploying multiple rescue assets including Coastguard rescue teams from Selsey and Littlehampton, lifeboats from Hayling Island and Selsey, search and rescue helicopters, and a fixed-wing surveillance aircraft.

In a statement, HM Coastguard said:
“We have been co-ordinating an extensive search and rescue response to a report of a person in the water at West Wittering received today (8 July) just after 11.30am. Nothing has been found and the search has now been suspended pending any further information.”

Selsey RNLI confirmed both of their lifeboats were launched in the afternoon to relieve the Hayling Island crews, who had been searching since midday.
The inshore lifeboat (ILB) launched at 3.08pm, followed by the all-weather lifeboat (ALB) at 3.14pm. Upon arrival, they joined the coordinated search effort as directed by the Coastguard.

The operation also involved West Wittering lifeguards and Sussex Police, covering a wide area both at sea and along the coastline.

The search was officially suspended at 4.49pm with no person found. Both Selsey RNLI boats returned to station shortly after – the ILB at 5.11pm and the ALB at 5.22pm – and were immediately recovered, cleaned down, refuelled, and made ready for service.

Authorities say the incident remains open, and the search may resume if further information comes to light.

Anyone with information that may assist emergency services is urged to contact them immediately.