A British mother tragically drowned while swimming with her son in Corfu, Greece, during a family holiday. The incident occurred in July 2023 when Emma Slack, 54, was swept away by powerful waves while enjoying a dip at the beach. Her husband, Rob Slack, attempted to rescue her but faced difficulties himself, leading to a devastating undercurrent that pulled Emma towards nearby rocks.
During an inquest held in North Wales, senior coroner John Gittins stated that Emma was a “competent swimmer” and had never knowingly put herself or her son in danger. He emphasized that her death was the result of a “tragic accident.” The hearing revealed that the Slack family had traveled to Greece for a long-awaited holiday that ended in heartbreak.
Tributes and condolences have poured in for Emma, who worked as a training adviser and was described as “beautiful inside and out.” Friends and family expressed their sorrow online, with one friend stating, “Devastated. Rest in peace beautiful friend. I will miss you terribly.”
Investigation Findings and Conditions
The inquest revealed that officials from Greek authorities reported “intense wave activity” in the area at the time of the incident. Rob Slack expressed concerns regarding the lack of warning signs and suggested that the beach should have been closed due to adverse conditions. The coroner noted that other beachgoers were present in the water at the time and were enjoying the waves without incident. Notably, the nearest lifeguard station was unmanned.
Coroner Gittins acknowledged Rob’s concerns about signage and lifeguard provision but clarified that his jurisdiction did not extend beyond the UK for issuing a Prevention of Future Deaths report. He reassured Rob that Emma had not taken any undue risks and reiterated that her drowning was “simply a tragic accident.”
Community Response and Legacy
As news of Emma’s passing spread, the community responded with heartfelt tributes, reflecting on her role as a devoted mother, cherished wife, and beloved daughter. Friends described her as an “adored wife, devoted mum and treasured and much-loved daughter.” One friend remarked, “Beautiful person inside and out. Truly, such a gentle soul.”
Coroner Gittins expressed his condolences to Rob Slack, particularly as the holiday season approaches, acknowledging the immense challenges he faces following the loss of his wife. An inquest serves to determine the circumstances surrounding a death, aiming to provide clarity on how, when, and where it occurred. Emma Slack’s tragic story highlights the unpredictable dangers of coastal swimming and the importance of vigilance in such environments.
