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British mother dies after rescuing sons swept away by currents off Bimini

Top things to know

  • Leanne Gregory, 36, died after trying to rescue her two sons swept away by a strong current while snorkeling off Bimini.
  • The children were rescued; Gregory was found unresponsive at the North Bimini Ferry Dock and later pronounced dead at a local clinic.
  • The Royal Bahamas Police Force does not suspect foul play and an autopsy is planned.
  • Gregory’s husband called her an “absolute hero” and set up a fundraising page for the family.
  • The British Foreign Office confirmed it is in contact with Bahamian authorities and offering support.

Leanne Gregory, a 36‑year‑old British tourist from Stapleford, Nottinghamshire, died on Tuesday after a harrowing rescue attempt for her two young sons off the island of Bimini, Bahamas. The family had been snorkeling near the southern point of the island when a strong current pulled the children away from the shore.

According to the Royal Bahamas Police Force, officers received a report shortly after 10 a.m. that a woman was unresponsive at the North Bimini Ferry Dock. Police said the children were rescued from the water, but Gregory was swept back toward the dock, where by‑standers performed CPR before she was taken to a local clinic.

At the clinic, a local doctor pronounced Gregory dead despite medical efforts. The police force confirmed that foul play is not suspected and that an autopsy will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death.

Gregory’s husband, Nathan Gregory, posted a heartfelt tribute on social media, describing his wife as “the purest, most amazing wife, mother and friend” and calling her an “absolute hero” for saving their sons. He also launched a fundraising page to support the children and provide security for the family after the tragedy.

A spokesperson for the British Foreign Office expressed condolences, noting that the United Kingdom is in contact with Bahamian authorities and is providing support to the family.

The incident has prompted the Royal Bahamas Police Force to open an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death, while reaffirming that no criminal activity is suspected. The case underscores the dangers of strong ocean currents in the region and the importance of safety precautions for visitors engaging in water activities.