Two men have died after going into the sea to try to help two children who had got into difficulty, Cleveland Police said.
The force said that officers were called at around 3.45pm after concerns were raised for two children who had got into difficulty in the water at Seaton Carew beach in Hartlepool.
Two men entered the sea to assist the children, who were taken to hospital to be checked over and are now confirmed to be safe.
RNLI staff brought the men out of the water, and they received immediate medical treatment, the police said.
But both men were pronounced dead a short time later.
In a further statement on Monday afternoon (July 13), police confirmed they are continuing to carry out enquiries on behalf of the Coroner.
Temporary Chief Superintendent Helen Wilson said: “Our thoughts remain with everyone affected by the incident in Seaton Carew yesterday.
“We are continuing to carry out enquiries on behalf of the Coroner, and officers are supporting the families involved in this incident.”
The force said that specially trained officers were supporting both families.
Follow STV News on WhatsApp
Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
