Bimini Mother Drowns While Chasing Current-Carried Boys

A 36-year-old British woman died on Tuesday after a strong current pulled her away from her two sons during a family snorkeling trip in the Bahamas. The incident occurred near the southern point of North Bimini, and the Royal Bahamas Police Force has opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death.

Officers at the Alice Town police station received a call shortly after 10 a.m. reporting that a woman was unresponsive at the North Bimini ferry dock. By the time officers arrived at the scene, the woman had already been transported to the local clinic. A doctor there pronounced her dead despite efforts to revive her.

Police explained that the family was swimming with their father when the current suddenly swept both boys from the group. As the mother moved to reach her children, the water took her as well. Rescue teams eventually pulled her from the water and brought her to the ferry dock, where bystanders administered CPR before her transfer to the clinic.

In a statement posted on social media, the police force confirmed that both boys were safely rescued from the water. The statement noted that foul play is not suspected at this time. Authorities stated that an autopsy will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death.

The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office confirmed it is aware of the case. A spokesperson said officials are in contact with local authorities and are providing support to the family. The office said its thoughts are with the family of the British woman who has died.

North Bimini is part of a small island group situated between Andros and Miami. It serves as the closest point in the Bahamas to the US mainland. The islands are also known for hosting a world-leading shark research center and for once being home to author Ernest Hemingway.