A man has tragically died after his van plunged approximately 160 feet (around 49 meters) off a cliff at a popular UK beauty spot.

The incident occurred at Peacehaven in East Sussex on Wednesday, July 1, at around 4:30pm. Emergency services responded to reports of a vehicle going over the cliff edge at Friar’s Bay.

The wreckage of a white van was visible on the rocks below, and the driver’s body was discovered on the beach in the afternoon. The man has not yet been formally identified.

A Sussex Police spokesperson said:

“Police received a report of a van going over the cliff edge at Peacehaven at about 4.30pm on Wednesday, 1 July. The van was located and the driver, a man who is yet to be formally identified, was sadly found deceased. Police are investigating the full circumstances of this tragic incident and the coroner’s officer has been informed.”

The area was cordoned off by police as investigations continue. It is not yet known whether the incident was an accident, and no other vehicles or individuals are believed to be involved.

Peacehaven and the surrounding cliffs along the Sussex coast are known for their scenic views and attract many visitors, but the steep drops have been the site of previous tragic incidents.

Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the deceased at this difficult time.