Man, 22, dies off Hartlepool Marina after fall from fishing boat - investigation launched

Cleveland Police officers were called to the town's marina on Friday night, after a man fell from a fishing boat.

A statement on the force's Facebook page said: "The 22-year-old man was fishing with his brother, nephew and a female at 7.25pm when his foot got tangled in the ropes of the fishing net and he fell into the water.

"He was in the water for a very short time before the RNLI came to his aid. Air ambulance were alerted and attended along with the coastguard who also assisted with his rescue but unfortunately the young man died.

"Other family members have now also been informed of the tragedy."

Inspector Ashley Harvey, of Cleveland Police, said: "There is currently an investigation underway between the police and the Marine Accident Investigation branch to investigate the circumstances around the incident.

"Further details should be released later."

Hartlepool RNLI volunteer crewmembers were tasked to attend the incident. The fishing boat had been setting lobsterpots when the fisherman went overboard, they said.

Mike Craddy, Hartlepool RNLI Operations Manager said: "This was a multi agency incident and despite the best efforts of all concerned we were unable to save the gentleman. Our thoughts go out to his family and friends at this sad time."