Eyewitnesses have shared chilling accounts of the tragic drowning incident that unfolded on Wednesday afternoon near Newhaven on Victoria’s Phillip Island around 3:30 pm.
Phillip Island Beach Drowning: How Many People Died?
At least three individuals lost their lives, and another was airlifted to a hospital in critical condition. Emergency services, including rescue helicopters, responded to reports of four people—three women and a man—being unresponsive after being pulled from the water.
Details of the Victims
The victims, reported as two women in their 20s and a 40-year-old man, were swimming at an unpatrolled location near Forrest Caves, a beach known for its sea caves. Despite attempts at CPR, three of them were pronounced dead at the scene.
Witness Accounts
Eyewitnesses described the heartbreaking scene as family and friends of the victims arrived at the beach. A witness mentioned a group of about 10 people who had come for a pleasant day, but tragedy struck, leaving people in shock and grief.
Dangerous Conditions at Forrest Caves:
The incident occurred at Forrest Caves, a popular tourist spot known for its sea caves. The beach, located on the island’s south coast, is exposed and prone to rips. Notoriously dangerous, it is not patrolled by lifeguards, and even locals avoid swimming there due to the hazards.
Reactions and Warnings
Local reactions to the drowning reflected horror and emphasized the treacherous conditions at Forrest Caves. People shared on social media that it’s not a swimming beach, urging caution about strong currents and rips. A warning about the dangers of entering caves during high tide and the absence of lifeguards was highlighted.
Previous Incidents and Police Response
Incidents of drowning in the area were noted, with locals emphasizing the risks associated with the beach. Police are treating the deaths as non-suspicious and will prepare a report for the coroner.
