Guernsey Police received a report of an incident in Alderney shortly after 11pm on Sunday, which led to a search and rescue operation being launched around the cliffs known as the Guns.
At about 4.30am on Monday, Channel Islands Air Search reported the first sighting of a person in the water at the base of the cliffs.
‘A joint rescue operation involving Bailiwick emergency services, the RNLI and the French Coastguard subsequently took place,’ said Guernsey Police detective superintendent Jonathan Bancroft in a media briefing on Monday afternoon.
‘A woman was confirmed deceased. Guernsey Police has now launched a criminal investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death. A 44-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder. He was initially receiving treatment at the hospital in Alderney and has since been transferred into police custody.’
Police enquiries are at an early stage and work will continue to establish exactly what happened and to support those affected.
Guernsey Police is not looking for any other suspects and do not believe there is an ongoing risk to the wider community in Alderney.
‘Our thoughts and condolences are with the woman’s family and those close to her at this extremely difficult time,’ said Mr Bancroft.
‘Specialist officers are supporting them and keeping them updated as the investigation progresses. It is very important to emphasise that this remains an active investigation. We are keeping an open mind as the circumstances and our enquiries will be guided by the evidence.’
He could not give further details on the male’s injuries, but said that he was admitted to hospital in Alderney in the early hours of Monday.
Further details of both individuals will be released in due course.
There will continue to be a significant emergency services presence in Alderney while the work is carried out.
‘I would ask people to avoid speculation, particularly on social media, while our enquiries continue,’ said Mr Bancroft.
‘Alderney is a small and close-knit community, and we recognise the significant impact an incident of this nature will have.’
Anyone with information that might assist the investigation is asked to contact Guernsey Police on 01481 222222.
