Rescue teams searching for missing teenager Grace Keeling, 15, have made a distressing discovery that has deepened fears for her safety, just days after she was swept out to sea by a freak wave alongside her mother.

On Tuesday morning, emergency crews confirmed they had recovered Grace’s black personal backpack approximately 300 meters from the spot where she disappeared along the coastline at Withernsea, East Yorkshire. The bag was found partially submerged among rocks during a low-tide sweep carried out by RNLI volunteers and police search units.

According to authorities, the backpack was identified by family members and carefully opened at the scene. Inside, rescue teams found Grace’s mobile phone, a folded hoodie, and a small notebook, all soaked with seawater but still intact. The phone was no longer functioning, ruling out any immediate chance of retrieving location data or recent communications.

Police described the discovery as “significant but heartbreaking,” noting that personal items washing ashore often indicate the strength of currents in the area at the time of the incident.

Grace went missing after a sudden, powerful wave struck the seafront, dragging her into the sea. Her mother, Sarah Keeling, 45, rushed in after her in a desperate attempt to save her. Tragically, Sarah later lost her life, as did a 67-year-old passerby who entered the water to help. Their deaths have already been confirmed.

Despite extensive search efforts involving coastguard helicopters, lifeboats, drones, and shoreline teams, Grace has not yet been found. Authorities say sea conditions at the time — including strong tides and freezing temperatures — severely reduced survival chances.

A police spokesperson said:

“The recovery of Grace’s belongings is extremely distressing for everyone involved. Our thoughts remain with her family, and we will continue to support them as the investigation and searches progress.”

Floral tributes continue to line the promenade, with handwritten notes pleading for answers and remembering the bravery of those who tried to help.

As of now, Grace Keeling remains missing, and while formal search operations have scaled back, police say any new information or sightings will be acted upon immediately.

The community remains united in grief — and hope — as questions linger about the tragic moments after the sea went silent.