A devastating three-day search for a missing swimmer in New South Wales’ west has come to a tragic end.
Police have confirmed that a body has been found in the Murrumbidgee River, Australia’s second-longest river.
What Happened?
The 37-year-old man was riding on a floaty being towed by a boat when he fell into the river at Darlington Point on Australia Day. Despite an urgent call to emergency services, the man failed to resurface.
The search began on Sunday, involving multiple agencies, including the Murrumbidgee Police District, NSW Ambulance, and the State Emergency Service.
The Search Efforts
The search operation was briefly suspended before resuming on Monday at 7:30 am.
Police divers entered the water, but unfortunately, the man couldn’t be found. It was later revealed that the man was not wearing a life jacket when he fell into the water.
A Tragic Discovery
On Tuesday, police confirmed that a man’s body had been recovered at around 8:10 am. A crime scene has been established, and a report will be prepared for the Coroner.
A Pattern of Tragedy
This incident is not an isolated one. According to Royal Life Saving Australia, Australia Day is one of the most dangerous days of the year for drownings.
In fact, new analysis shows that New Year’s Day and Australia Day are the worst days of the year for drownings. Between 2010 and 2022, one in 20 fatal or near-fatal drownings happened on one of these two days.
A Call to Action
Experts say that alcohol is a significant factor in the increase in drownings, and a new safety approach is needed.
If you have any information about the Murrumbidgee incident, please contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.