A womna and child who died after getting into difficulties on an Aberdeen beach on Saturday have been named as Julie Walker, 37 and her son Lucas, 6.
The emergency services were called to reports of people in difficulty in the water at around 4.45pm on Saturday.
A major rescue operation was launched and five people were pulled from the water and taken to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary.
Ms Walker and her son later died in hospital.
A man, aged 28, a woman, aged 25, and 13-year-old boy remain in hospital for treatment.
Lucas’s brother, Samuel, “bravely” entered the water in an attempt to savehis mother and brother and is making a “steady recovery” in hospital, police said.
A 25-year-old woman and 28-year-old man were also taken to hospital, but have since been discharged.
The “heroic attempts” by emergency services and members of the public to save the group while facing “treacherous sea conditions” have been hailed by police.
Chief Superintendent Campbell Thomson, north east divisional commander, said: “This is a very tragic incident and our thoughts are with the Walker family at this sad and difficult time.
“Whilst officers continue to investigate the circumstances of the incident, it is clear heroic attempts were made to save Julie and Lucas by both on and off-duty police officers, emergency service personnel and members of the public, facing treacherous sea conditions and high winds during their rescue bid. Their brave efforts cannot be overstated.”
He added: “I’d like to pay special tribute to Lucas’s brother Samuel, who very bravely entered the water in an attempt to rescue his mother and brother. We are all very thankful Samuel is making a steady recovery in hospital.”
Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon was also among those paying tribute.
She tweeted: “Tragic, heartbreaking news. My thoughts are with all those involved.”
Aberdeen Central MSP Kevin Stewart posted: “Sorry to hear of the tragic event that has taken place at Aberdeen beach. My thoughts are with those involved, their families and friends.”
Chief Supt Thomson warned members of the public to take care near water.
“Our seas can be extremely unforgiving – even during the summer months – with conditions changing rapidly. I would urge people to be extremely careful when near any body of water whether you’re swimming, sailing or walking near the water’s edge,” he said.
