Autopsy points to drowning.
An autopsy suggests a Canadian woman found dead on an Australian beach likely drowned. Authorities said the injuries found on her body did not cause her death.
Nineteen-year-old Piper James was discovered earlier this week on K’Gari, an island off Queensland’s coast. Dingoes were seen near her body when it was found.
Findings from the coroner
The Coroners Court of Queensland said the autopsy showed signs consistent with drowning. It also confirmed dingo bite injuries.
However, officials said the bite marks happened before death but were not severe enough to be fatal. In addition, they found no evidence that another person was involved.
The autopsy remains preliminary. Officials said it may take several weeks to confirm the final cause of death.
Timeline of events
Piper had been living on the island for about six weeks. She worked at a backpackers’ hostel during that time.
According to friends, she planned an early morning swim at around 05:00 on Monday. Her body was found roughly ninety minutes later.
She was discovered near the Maheno shipwreck, a well-known tourist site on the island.
Family reaction
Piper’s father said the family felt some relief after hearing the results. He explained that the findings allow her body to be returned to Canada.
Her mother said Piper loved travel and saved money for the trip after finishing high school. Although her parents had worries, she remained determined to go.
Dingo presence on the island
K’Gari is home to a large population of dingoes. The animals are protected under Queensland law.
Officials estimate around two hundred dingoes live on the World Heritage-listed island. The area where Piper was found is known for frequent dingo activity.
