British woman dies in Bimini after being swept away saving sons
Police are investigating the death of a 36-year-old tourist who struggled against strong currents near North Bimini on Tuesday.
By Lorenzo Evans ·
A 36-year-old British woman died in the Bahamas on Tuesday after strong ocean currents pulled her away from her family during a snorkeling trip. Her two sons were swept from the shallow water near the southern point of North Bimini, and she swam toward them to assist. During that effort, the current also took her from the group. Both boys were eventually rescued and are safe.
Officers from the Royal Bahamas police force received a call shortly after 10 a.m. regarding an unresponsive woman at the North Bimini ferry dock. By the time police arrived at the dock, the woman had already been moved to a local clinic for medical attention. A doctor on site pronounced her dead after attempts to revive her failed. Police confirmed that bystanders had administered CPR at the ferry dock after pulling her from the water. The force stated that foul play is not suspected in the incident.
The police department has opened an investigation to determine the exact cause of death. An autopsy is scheduled to be performed as part of that review. In a social media statement, the force detailed the preliminary timeline, noting that the woman was with her husband and two sons when the current struck. They described the situation as the boys being carried away, prompting the mother to swim in their direction before she was also swept out of reach.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office confirmed it is aware of the situation. A spokesperson said officials are in contact with local authorities and are providing support to the family. The office added that their thoughts are with the relatives of the woman who has died.
Bimini serves as the closest point in the Bahamas to the US mainland, situated between the island of Andros and Miami. The island group is known for its connection to author Ernest Hemingway and hosts a shark research center. The location of the incident, near the southern tip of North Bimini, is a popular spot for water activities due to its shallow reefs.
Source: The Guardian
