Mother swept away by Bimini current while reaching for sons

A 36-year-old British woman died in the Bahamas after a powerful current pulled her away from her two sons during a family snorkeling trip on Tuesday. Royal Bahamas police confirmed the incident occurred near the southern point of North Bimini, where the group was in the water with the woman's husband.

Police reports indicate the current swept both boys away from the group. The mother attempted to swim toward her children to assist them. In the process, she was also carried out to sea by the strong water movement. The two boys were later recovered from the water and are safe.

Shortly after 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, officers at the Alice Town police station received a call regarding an unresponsive woman at the North Bimini ferry dock. By the time officers arrived at the scene, the woman had already been transported to a local clinic for medical attention. A doctor pronounced her dead at the facility despite resuscitation efforts.

The police statement noted that the woman was initially rescued from the water and brought to the ferry dock. CPR was administered at the dock before she was moved to the clinic. Investigators stated that foul play is not suspected at this time. An autopsy has been ordered to determine the precise cause of death.

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office confirmed it is aware of the death. A spokesperson stated that officials are in contact with local authorities and are providing support to the family. The office is monitoring the case as part of its standard protocol for British nationals abroad.

North Bimini is 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 major shark research center. The area remains a popular destination for tourists and local residents seeking marine activities.

The investigation into the death is ongoing. Police continue to gather statements from family members and witnesses present at the time of the incident. The family is receiving assistance from both local authorities and the UK government's consular team.