A honeymoon is a time for newlyweds to devote quality time to each other without any external influences. Other than whisking off to a gorgeous location, it may be one of the only times where man and wife will be able to pamper each other without any worry in the world. But that sadly wasn’t the case for Lynette, 26, and John Rodgers, 28. The Northern Ireland couple tied the knot in a beautiful ceremony in front of family and friends before traveling to South Africa for their honeymoon. Six days later, families would be devastated after news of their drowning.

The body of John was discovered in shallow surf on Robberg Beach by a local man according to a report from South Africa’s National Sea Rescue. His wife’s body was found about 650 feet away along the same beach. Doctors performed CPR on the couple but, sadly, they were pronounced dead.

In a joint statement their families, from County Down in Northern Ireland, said, “It has come as a great shock to both the Reilly and Rodgers families to learn of the sudden and tragic events in South Africa, which has taken the lives of Lynette and John.

IMAGE SOURCE: ELITEDAILY

“Our happiness in sharing their recent wedding has been thoroughly devastated. Both were very dearly loved and brought us great joy,” they wrote. In poignant messages posted on Facebook, Mrs. Rodgers conveyed her excitement ahead of her South African adventure.

IMAGE SOURCE: BBC

The Foreign Office has confirmed it is providing consular assistance to both families, and authorities said that their drowning may have been caused by a strong riptide.

Our hearts and prayers go out to their family and loved ones. Unbelievably sad!

Please SHARE.