Ololade Adeyanju/
The three women whose bodies were recovered from the sea off Brighton Beach in southern England have been identified as sisters of apparent Nigerian heritage.
Their devastated father released a moving tribute describing them as the “light” of the family.
The victims were named as Jane Adetoro, 36, Christina Walter, 32, and Rebecca Walter, 31, all believed to be from Uxbridge, west London.
British authorities recovered their bodies from the water near Black Rock car park along Madeira Drive in the early hours of May 13 following reports of concern for a person in the sea.
Their surnames and family background have drawn widespread attention within Black British and Nigerian communities online, with many expressing shock and grief over the tragedy.
In a heartbreaking statement released through the family, their father, Joseph, said the deaths had left an unimaginable void.
“Today, with a heart full of sorrow and love, I pay tribute to my beloved daughters — Jane, Christina, and Becky — whose lives ended so tragically far too soon,” he said.
“No words can truly describe the pain of losing three daughters in the prime of their lives. Jane, Christina, and Becky were more than daughters to me; they were my joy, my strength, and the beautiful light that filled our family with happiness and love.”
Joseph went on to describe each daughter’s unique qualities, remembering Jane for her strength and wisdom, Christina for her kindness and compassion, and Rebecca, fondly called Becky, for her infectious laughter and vibrant spirit.
Emergency services, including Sussex Police, the coastguard, lifeboat crews and air rescue teams, were dispatched to Brighton seafront at about 5.45am after reports of someone in distress in the water.
The bodies of the three women were subsequently recovered from the sea.
Authorities have stressed that investigations remain ongoing, although police say there is currently no evidence of criminality or third-party involvement.
Chief Superintendent Adam Hays of Sussex Police described the incident as “an utterly heartbreaking tragedy” and appealed for patience while investigators work to establish exactly what happened.
The deaths have triggered emotional reactions across social media, particularly among Nigerians in the United Kingdom, where many users shared condolences and prayers for the bereaved family.
Brighton Beach, one of Britain’s most popular seaside destinations, was temporarily closed following the recovery operation before later reopening to the public.
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