The country was left in shock when news emerged that a six-year-old boy and his mother had drowned away following a day out at the beach.
Lucas Walker had been playing beside the water with his brother when he was swept out to sea on Saturday by a big wave. His mum, Julie, tried to save him but tragically, despite being taken to hospital, both died.
The mother and son were from Aberdeen, Scotland, and many bystanders made “heroic attempts” to save them, including Lucas’ brother, 13-year-old Samuel.
.@policescotland and @AberdeenCC supporting the family of Julie Walker and 6 year Lucas after Aberdeen beach tragedy pic.twitter.com/9XtlFkMLRc
— Northsound News (@northsoundnews) August 22, 2016
Chief Supt Campbell Thomson issued a statement saying that the investigation was ongoing, before giving special praise to Samuel for his brave attempt to rescue his family.
Samuel is said to be making a "steady recovery" in Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, while a 25-year-old woman and 28-year-old man have been discharged, all three had tried to rescue the family.
Police issue statement after Aberdeen Mum and son, 6, die at the city's seafront pic.twitter.com/uymEiKanuV
— Northsound News (@northsoundnews) August 21, 2016
"It is clear heroic attempts were made to save Julie and Lucas by both on and off-duty police officers, emergency service personnel and members of the public, facing treacherous sea conditions and high winds during their rescue bid," he said.
"I'd like to pay special tribute to Lucas's brother Samuel, who very bravely entered the water in an attempt to rescue his mother and brother."
Urging people to be extremely careful when anywhere near the water, Mr Thomson continued: "Our seas can be extremely unforgiving - even during the summer months - with conditions changing rapidly."
"I would urge people to be extremely careful when near any body of water whether you're swimming, sailing or walking near the water's edge."
