- Crocodile killed after suspected attack in Australia
After a suspected attack on a 40-year-old fisherman in Australia, rangers have killed a crocodile**. The nearly five-meter-long reptile was spotted about four kilometers from the incident location by a helicopter, the wildlife authority said. It was identified by a distinctive white scar on its snout.
Authorities now speak of a "fatal attack"
The search for the 40-year-old continues, but it is feared that he is dead, according to media reports. A spokesperson for the wildlife authority also described the incident as a "fatal attack". The crocodile's carcass was handed over to the police. It is believed to have been several decades old.
The attack occurred on Saturday near Cooktown in the tropical state of Queensland. Initial investigations suggest that the man was fishing on the riverbank when he fell into the water and did not resurface, as stated in a police statement.
Reports suggest that the man was with his wife and children on the banks of the popular fishing river Annan. The family from the neighboring state of New South Wales was traveling in a caravan. "My condolences go out to the family, who are obviously traumatized at the moment," 7News quoted investigator Greg Finucane.
People may have fed crocodiles nearby
Authorities are also investigating social media tips that people were seen feeding crocodiles near the incident location. "This is very dangerous and very irresponsible," said a spokesperson for the wildlife authority. The reptiles are encouraged to stay in the area, posing a significant safety risk. Feeding crocodiles is a criminal offense punishable by a fine of around $5,000.
Just last July, there was a fatal crocodile attack on a 12-year-old girl in Australia. Rangers later killed a 4.2-meter-long reptile in the Northern Territory. The girl was swimming near an Aboriginal community before she disappeared. Search teams later discovered the girl's remains. On average, there are two fatal crocodile attacks per year in Australia.
The police are treating the crocodile's involvement in the incident as a separate case and are investigating it thoroughly. Other tourists in the area have been advised to be cautious and follow safety guidelines when near water bodies.
