Tragedy in Skegness: Aaron Keightley Dies After Being Pulled Out to Sea on First Holiday with Friends

A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded on Skegness Beach, Lincolnshire, on June 30, 2025, when 29-year-old Aaron Keightley lost his life after getting into difficulty in the surf. The young man, who was on his first holiday with friends, was pulled unconscious from the water by RNLI lifeguards, but despite immediate efforts to resuscitate him, he could not be saved.

Pulled by the Current

Aaron was swimming just south of the Central Beach when he was caught in a powerful current. Lifeguards rushed to the scene at around 3:30 p.m. and recovered him from the sea. A spokesperson from RNLI Lifeguards Lincolnshire confirmed: “Despite their best efforts to resuscitate him, the casualty sadly passed away at the scene. Our thoughts go to the family and friends affected by the incident, along with many of the beach visitors who witnessed the tragic events.”

A Family in Mourning

Aaron’s sister, Shannon Smith, has since spoken publicly about the family’s grief, calling it a “heart-wrenching pain.” She said Aaron had his “whole future ahead of him” and was deeply loved by all who knew him.

She added that it was “no age to lose your life” and urged people to be cautious at the beach, warning: “No matter your size or strength, there is nothing more powerful than the sea.”

Fundraiser for a Final Goodbye

Shannon has started a GoFundMe page to help cover the costs of bringing Aaron home and arranging a fitting send-off.

“Aaron would give anyone his last pound. Nobody deserves a better send-off than him. We are hurting beyond belief,” she wrote.

Aaron’s death has shaken the local community and serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers that can arise in open water, even for strong swimmers.