The seven-year-old boy who was critically injured in the Essex beach tragedy that claimed the lives of his aunt and cousin has died.
Musa Ahmed had been on life support in a London hospital since last week’s incident at West Mersea beach, in which his aunt, Shelina Rahman, 42, and her 15-year-old daughter, Sameeha, also lost their lives.
The family were on a day trip to the beach when an incoming tide left several adults and children struggling in the water.
In a statement, Musa’s parents said: “With patience and tawakkul in Allah’s promise, we announce that our son Musa Ahmed (aged 7) has returned to his Creator just after Maghrib, in a state of ease and peace.
“We ask Allah to envelope him in His love, mercy and accept him into the garden of Paradise Ameen.”
Last week, Shelina’s husband, Dr Mansur Rahman, spoke of his heartbreak following the tragedy. He was in London when the incident unfolded and learned what had happened from a friend.
Dr Rahman praised the emergency services, hospital staff and the beachgoers.
“The Colchester Hospital staff, they showed us respectful care. They treated us very nicely and beautifully. I really appreciate it,” he said to reporters after the funeral at East London Mosque.
“I also appreciate the fire brigade, the local Essex community, local police also.
“The people who were there when the incident happened. The people who jumped and the ladies who jumped and tried to save my kids I really appreciate it.
“I thank them from the bottom of my heart for my family.
“Their actions embodied the very best of humanity”
Earlier in the week Shahin Ahmed, the father of Musa, also thanked members of the local community who rushed into the water alongside emergency services in an attempt to save the family.
“We wish to thank the members of the local community who responded to our calls for help for their extraordinary efforts.
“Several local residents and visitors to the beach that day showed exceptional courage, kindness and selflessness as they rushed to assist my family members who were struggling in the water.
“Their actions embodied the very best of humanity, and our family will always be grateful for the bravery they showed in our hour of need.
Mr Ahmed added that he hoped lessons would be learned from the tragedy and backed calls from local residents for improved safety measures at West Mersea Beach.
“I strongly agree with the calls from local residents for a review of safety measures at West Mersea Beach, including the provision of additional life-saving equipment and clear warning signage,” he said.
“While no action now can undo the pain we are suffering, we hope lessons can be learned to help prevent similar tragedies from happening in the future.”
