“SHE WENT OUT FOR A WALK WITH HER DOG — AND NEVER CAME HOME”: TRIBUTES POUR IN FOR SAL GALLOWAY

Sal Galloway, 59, was swept into the sea by a powerful wave while walking along the Isle of Wight coastline during severe storm conditions. Her dog survived, as friends and relatives remember her as a beautiful, kind woman who touched countless lives.

A woman who set out for an ordinary walk with her dog never returned home after a powerful wave swept her into the sea during a storm along the Isle of Wight coastline.

Sal Galloway, 59, lost her life on October 26 while walking along the coastal promenade between Sandown and Shanklin, where rough seas and powerful winds were battering the shore.

Her passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from relatives, childhood friends and members of the local community, many of whom have described her as a beautiful woman who always made time for others.

One friend remembered her as someone whose kindness had touched countless people.

A WALK THAT ENDED IN TRAGEDY

Emergency services were alerted at approximately 11:17 a.m. after reports of a woman in the water near the coastal path.

A major search-and-rescue operation was launched, involving police officers, paramedics, HM Coastguard rescue teams, a helicopter and Bembridge RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat.

Despite the efforts of emergency crews, Sal’s body was recovered from the water shortly after midday, south of Sandown Pier.

Her dog survived and was taken to a nearby café as the emergency response unfolded.

Police confirmed that Sal’s next of kin had been informed and that a file would be prepared for the coroner.

“FLY HIGH, MY DARLING”

As news of Sal’s passing spread, friends and family shared emotional messages remembering the woman they had known and loved.

A devastated cousin wrote:

“RIP to my beautiful cousin Sal Galloway. Can’t believe I’m writing this. Fly high my darling.”

Another friend remembered her as a lovely woman who always had time for everyone.

“Rest in peace my dear friend Sal Galloway. Didn’t see you much but you were a lovely lady. Always had time for everyone.”

The message continued with condolences to her family and friends, adding that Sal had touched the lives of so many people.

Others expressed shock at the news, with one childhood friend writing simply:

“My childhood best friend. Will miss you.”

Sal was also remembered by members of the scootering community, where friends said her presence and friendship would be deeply missed.

DANGEROUS CONDITIONS ALONG THE COAST

The tragedy unfolded as Storm Boelo brought severe weather across parts of the United Kingdom, with strong winds, heavy rain and dangerous coastal conditions.

Following the incident, Isle of Wight Council urged residents and visitors to stay well away from sea walls, slipways, cliff edges and exposed coastal paths.

Dog walkers were specifically advised to keep their pets on leads, while members of the public were warned not to turn their backs on the sea or approach rough water to take photographs.

The council also reminded people to check weather forecasts and tide times before visiting the coastline.

Anyone who sees someone in difficulty in the water should call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

A COMMUNITY LEFT HEARTBROKEN

For those who knew Sal, the loss is about far more than the circumstances of one terrible afternoon.

She was a cousin, a childhood friend and a much-loved member of her community. The tributes describe someone whose warmth and kindness will remain in the memories of the people she met.

Her final walk began as an ordinary part of the day. Now, those who loved her are left with memories, photographs and words of farewell.

Rest in peace, Sal Galloway. Your family, friends and everyone whose life you touched will remember you. 🕊️🤍