Tragic Crocodile Attack Claims Teenager’s Life in Torres Strait

18 April 2024 – A 16-year-old boy has died after what authorities believe was a crocodile attack in the waters off Saibai Island in the Torres Strait yesterday morning. The teenager’s body was discovered late yesterday with injuries consistent with a crocodile attack.

According to Queensland Police, the victim and a 13-year-old boy were in a dinghy that began taking on water in rough seas early Thursday. The two boys attempted to swim to shore, but only the younger boy made it to safety. He raised the alarm about the missing 16-year-old, prompting an air and water search by police.

The crocodile suspected in the fatal attack is estimated to be about 3.5 meters long. Wildlife officers from the Queensland Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI) are surveying the area by helicopter to attempt to locate the animal. The local community has requested that the crocodile be removed from the wild.

“The Department extends its condolences to the family and friends of the teenager who tragically died in this incident,” a DESI spokesperson said in a statement. “Wildlife officers have confirmed the boy suffered injuries consistent with a crocodile attack.”

Authorities are still working to formally identify the body discovered and confirm the cause of death. This marks the latest in a series of crocodile attacks in Australia in recent years, though such fatal incidents remain relatively rare. An investigation into the tragedy on Saibai Island is ongoing.