27-05-2025
Medic father, 60, who 'died a hero' after leaping into the sea to try to save two children was on holiday, devastated family reveal
A heroic medic father tragically lost his life after jumping into the sea in a desperate attempt to save two children who were in trouble in the water.
Alexandru Melei, 60, died on May 25 while on holiday in the seaside town of Ingoldmells, near Skegness, after bravely leaping into the sea to try and rescue two twin girls who 'appeared to be in distress'.
Emergency services, including an air ambulance, the coastguard and RNLI crews, rushed to the scene just after 4pm following reports that a man had entered the water close to the Promenade to help two struggling children.
However, he sadly 'got into difficulty' himself and was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.
Now, Alexandru's devastated family has paid tribute to him in a moving statement on a GoFundMe page, describing him as 'selfless, brave, devoted' and revealing that he died as he had lived – helping others.
'On May 25th, while on holiday, my father, Alexandru Melei, lost his life in a final act of unimaginable courage. He drowned while trying to save two twin sisters who were in danger,' the heartbreaking tribute reads.
'He didn't hesitate. He did what he had always done - as a medical assistant, as a father, as a man - he stepped forward to help, even at the cost of his own life. That was who he was: selfless, brave, devoted. He died a hero, but our hearts are shattered.'
The family say Alexandru's wife – his lifelong partner – was with him during his final moments and is 'devastated and lost without him'.
They are now raising funds to repatriate his body so that he can be 'laid to rest with dignity, surrounded by the love of his family and his homeland'.
'We are left with an unbearable void,' the tribute continues. 'From the depths of our grief, we thank you for your kindness, your messages, and your support. May God guide his soul and reward his sacrifice with eternal peace.'
Lincolnshire Police confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement, saying: 'A 60-year-old man has sadly died after entering the water to help two children who appeared to be in distress.
'The man reportedly entered the sea just after 4pm today (25 May) close to the Promenade in Ingoldmells, he got into difficulty and sadly died at the scene. Our thoughts are with the man's family and loved ones at this very sad time.'
Lincolnshire Police have not confirmed the identities of the children involved and say the incident is still under investigation.
