A Canadian backpacker was found dead on an Australian beach and surrounded by a pack of dingoes this week, with preliminary autopsy results indicating drowning as the likely cause. Nineteen-year-old Piper James, who had been traveling and working at a hostel, was discovered on K'Gari, an island in Queensland.
The Coroners Court of Queensland confirmed that James exhibited physical evidence consistent with drowning and injuries from dingo bites. Pre-mortem dingo bite marks were noted, but these did not appear to be the cause of her immediate death, according to a spokesperson.
Piper's body was located early Monday near the Maheno shipwreck, a popular tourist landmark. The area is home to a population of approximately 200 dingoes, a wild species of native dog protected in Queensland. In a statement to the media, the coroner revealed no evidence of anyone else being involved in the incident.
Her father, Todd James, stated that the family felt relieved as the autopsy findings might expedite the process of bringing their daughter back to Canada. Piper had planned her travels after saving money following her high school graduation, despite her parents’ concerns about her traveling at a young age. She had informed friends that she intended to take an early morning swim, which turned tragic.
The death of Piper James has raised awareness about the potential dangers of swimming in remote areas frequented by dingoes, highlighting the need for caution and respect for local wildlife.
The Coroners Court of Queensland confirmed that James exhibited physical evidence consistent with drowning and injuries from dingo bites. Pre-mortem dingo bite marks were noted, but these did not appear to be the cause of her immediate death, according to a spokesperson.
Piper's body was located early Monday near the Maheno shipwreck, a popular tourist landmark. The area is home to a population of approximately 200 dingoes, a wild species of native dog protected in Queensland. In a statement to the media, the coroner revealed no evidence of anyone else being involved in the incident.
Her father, Todd James, stated that the family felt relieved as the autopsy findings might expedite the process of bringing their daughter back to Canada. Piper had planned her travels after saving money following her high school graduation, despite her parents’ concerns about her traveling at a young age. She had informed friends that she intended to take an early morning swim, which turned tragic.
The death of Piper James has raised awareness about the potential dangers of swimming in remote areas frequented by dingoes, highlighting the need for caution and respect for local wildlife.
