The emergency services descended on a lake this afternoon.
Police officers, paramedics and fire crews were called to the water near Black Eagle Drive in Northfleet and the Donkey Path connecting Ebbsfleet to Swanscombe.
Scuba divers were also seen heading to the scene.
Eyewitnesses have told KentOnline that the residential area was “packed” with emergency services at around 5pm today (May 27).
The nature of the incident has not been confirmed, but a spokeswoman for the police said officers were called “due to concerns for a person in the Galley Hill Road area” at around 2.15pm.
Two fire engines, a water safety unit, and a technical rescue unit were also sent to the scene by control operators.
It comes as people are being urged to keep safe in the water following the deaths of nine people during the bank holiday heatwave.
The Royal Life Saving Society issued a plea for everyone to “stop and think” before getting into the water in response to the deaths, most of whom were children.
Swanscombe Neighbourhood Watch also echoed the message in a statement posted to Facebook.
The group, which promotes community awareness and neighbourly support, said: “As many may already be aware, today (Wednesday 27th May 2026), there was a major incident that took place in Swanscombe, on the footpath that leads from Stanhope Road down into Northfleet.
“We would like to send our deepest condolences to the family, friends and those affected by the incident that took place today.
“But we would also like to thank the members of our team who stepped up and went out to try and help with traffic management on Stanhope Road (while emergency services were trying to make their way to the scene), as well as the fast response from all the emergency services who attended today’s incident.
“When such a situation takes place, it makes people panic/worry, and our team were out and visible within the community to help keep things moving to prevent anything further from occurring.
“We understand how this type of incident may have affected those who may have been present and or witnessed the incident, and we would like to remind all that if any support is required, we are always willing to help get those affected in contact with the relevant organisations. We are only a private message/email away.
“Just a gentle reminder to all, especially parents with children who may be out having fun during the hot weather we are currently experiencing, to remind children of the dangers of swimming in lakes and rivers.”
More as we get it.
