An Isle of Wight woman who tragically lost her life whilst walking her dog along the Sandown to Shanklin revetment has been named locally as Sal Galloway, as heartfelt tributes pour in.
59-year-old Sal died on Monday (26th October) after being caught by a wave and being swept out to sea whilst walking along the coastal path during extremely rough sea conditions.
As previously reported by Island Echo, a major search and rescue operation was launched shortly after 11:15, involving Police, paramedics, Coastguard Rescue Teams, Bembridge RNLI’s All Weather Lifeboat and a Coastguard Rescue helicopter.
Despite the efforts of emergency services, Sal’s body was recovered from the water to the south of Sandown Pier shortly after midday.
Her dog survived and was taken in by a local cafe as the incident unfolded.
Since news of the tragedy emerged, friends and loved ones have taken to social media to remember Sal, describing her as a beautiful person who always had time for others.
In a particularly moving tribute, one friend wrote:
“The saddest news today! If only you knew how many lives you touched Sal Galloway.”
A devastated cousin said:
“Rip to my beautiful cousin Sal Galloway cant believe im writing this. Fly high my darling xxx.”
Sal was also well known within the scootering community, with one person paying tribute to the impact she had on those around her.
“So shocked to hear the tragic news, the scootering world and everybody who knew you will surely miss you R.I.P Sal Galloway.”
Another friend remembered Sal as someone who always made time for others, writing:
“Rest in peace my dear friend Sal Galloway didn’t see you much but you were a lovely lady. Always had time for everyone. Condolences to your family and friends. And Bloodyhell did you have a lot of them. RIP.”
A childhood friend simply said:
“My childhood best friend. Will miss you.”
The seaside tragedy unfolded following a weekend of severe weather across the Isle of Wight, with large waves and strong winds continuing to batter the coastline into the new week.
Sal’s next of kin have been informed, and a file is to be prepared for the coroner. An inquest is expected to be opened in due course.
