Sudden deaths investigation launched after Coastguard airlift two bodies from beneath the cliffs at Whitby Abbey

Emergency service teams have been involved in the recovery of two bodies from beneath the cliff at Whitby Abbey on Wednesday (30 July 2025) evening.

A member of the public called the police at 7.16pm after spotting a man and woman on the rocks below.

With the tide coming in fast, the Coastguard coordinated a helicopter recovery to ambulance crews near Whitby Abbey. This was completed at 8.24pm.

Paramedics confirmed the deaths, and the bodies have been taken to hospital by ambulance.

Police are on with tracing the next of kin of the man and woman while the investigation continues into the circumstances of the sudden deaths for a coroner’s report.

Witnesses to the incident or anyone with information that could assist officers are urged to call North Yorkshire Police on 101 quoting reference number 12250141734.