BIMINI, BAHAMAS | TUNGARU PRESS | October 25, 2026
A British mother has died after reportedly risking her life to save her two sons when they were swept away by a powerful ocean current while snorkelling during a family holiday in the Bahamas.
Leanne Gregory, 36, from Stapleford in Nottinghamshire, England, died following the incident near the island of Bimini on Tuesday, October 20.
Her two children were successfully rescued, but emergency responders were unable to save their mother.
Her husband, Nathan Gregory, has described his wife as a hero who gave everything to protect their children.
Family Snorkelling Trip Ends in Tragedy
According to the Royal Bahamas Police Force, Leanne had been snorkelling with her family when a strong current swept her sons away from safety.
She reportedly entered the dangerous water in an effort to help them.
Both boys were eventually rescued, but Leanne was found unresponsive after being caught in the current.
Police said officers received reports shortly after 10:00 a.m. local time on Tuesday that a woman had been brought to the North Bimini Ferry Dock.
Emergency responders performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) before she was transported to a nearby medical clinic.
Despite efforts to revive her, Leanne was pronounced dead at the clinic.
Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances of her death.
An autopsy is expected to be conducted, although authorities have said they do not suspect foul play.
Husband Pays Emotional Tribute
Leanne's husband, Nathan Gregory, shared an emotional tribute to his wife on social media, describing the loss as devastating for their family.
He said Leanne had been his childhood sweetheart and the person who held their family together.
The couple had been together for 22 years.
Nathan described his wife as a loving mother, devoted partner and caring friend whose loss would leave an enormous gap in their lives.
He said their sons had witnessed an experience no child should ever have to endure.
Despite the tragedy, Nathan expressed gratitude that both children had survived.
He said the boys understood that their mother had died while trying to protect them.
Mother Held On Until Son Was Rescued
In a message accompanying a fundraising appeal, Nathan provided further details about his wife's final moments.
He said Leanne had held on to one of their sons until the child could be rescued.
However, after helping him reach safety, she no longer had the strength to save herself.
Nathan described her actions as an extraordinary act of courage and love.
He said he would always remember her as a hero, both for the way she lived and for the sacrifice she made for their children.
His account has drawn attention to the dangers posed by strong ocean currents, even during recreational activities such as snorkelling.
Fundraising Appeal Launched for Children
Following Leanne's death, Nathan established a fundraising page to help provide financial security for their sons.
He explained that the family was facing an unimaginable loss and that his immediate priority was supporting the children through the difficult period ahead.
The appeal is intended to help secure their future following the sudden death of their mother.
Nathan's public statements have also highlighted the emotional impact of the incident on the children, who witnessed the emergency unfold.
British Authorities Supporting Family
The United Kingdom's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office confirmed that it was aware of the death of a British woman in the Bahamas.
A spokesperson expressed sympathy for the family and said officials were in contact with local authorities.
The department also confirmed that consular support was being provided to Leanne's relatives.
Meanwhile, Bahamian police are continuing their investigation as they await the results of a post-mortem examination.
Remembering a Mother's Courage
The tragedy has left a British family grieving the loss of a mother whose final actions were focused on protecting her children.
For Nathan Gregory, the loss is particularly painful because Leanne had been part of his life since childhood.
His tribute reflects both the heartbreak of losing his wife and his gratitude that their sons survived.
While investigators continue examining the circumstances of her death, her family is remembering her as a devoted mother who placed her children's safety above her own.
Leanne Gregory's death is a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers of powerful ocean currents and the extraordinary lengths parents may go to protect their children.
Her husband says the family will always remember her courage, compassion and love.
Original reporting: Ben Carr, BBC News, East Midlands.
Source: BBC News
Adapted and rewritten for Tungaru Press
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