Human Remains Found in Crocodile, Victim in Queensland Fatal Attack Identified

On a Tuesday not too long ago, police revealed a shocking twist in a tragic event that unfolded in Australia. Human remains were discovered inside a large crocodile, which is suspected to have played a role in the fatal attack on a tourist. This incident marks Australia's second fatal crocodile attack within a span of about a month.

Victim's Identity and Circumstances

The latest victim has been identified as Dr. Dave Hogbin, a 40-year-old medical professional. He met his unfortunate fate when he fell from a steep bank into the Annan River, located south of Cooktown in Queensland state, as disclosed by his family in a statement. Dr. Hogbin, a general practice doctor hailing from Newcastle in New South Wales, was on a camping vacation in Queensland with his wife, Jane Hogbin, and their three young sons, aged 2, 5, and 7 years. It is noteworthy that Cooktown is over 1,500 miles away from Newcastle by road.

The harrowing incident led wildlife rangers to take immediate action. On the following Monday, they euthanized a 16-foot crocodile found in a creek 2.5 miles away from the spot where Dr. Hogbin went missing. The crocodile bore scars on its snout, matching the descriptions provided by witnesses who had observed a similar reptile in the area at the time of the incident. The examination of the crocodile in Cooktown revealed the presence of human remains, believed to belong to Dr. Hogbin, as confirmed by a police statement. However, further tests are to be conducted to positively identify the remains.

Nature of the Accident

Contrary to earlier police reports suggesting that Dr. Hogbin had been fishing when he fell, the family clarified that he was actually walking along a riverbank path situated 16 feet above the river. The tragic accident transpired when part of the bank gave way, causing Dr. Hogbin to plunge into the water.

As outlined in the family statement, his wife, Jane, who heard the splash, rushed to his aid. However, due to the steepness and slipperiness of the bank, she was able to grab his arm but soon found herself slipping into the river as well. Dr. Hogbin's selfless decision to release her grip, despite knowing she was his only lifeline, ultimately saved her life, as emphasized by Jane Hogbin herself.

In the wake of the incident, family friend Alex Ward expressed profound sorrow, stating that while the family and friends were shattered, they were grateful for the time spent with Dr. Hogbin. He initiated a GoFundMe campaign to provide support to the grieving family. The tragic event unfolded at a location notorious for its crocodile sightings, known as Crocodile Bend, which is frequented by tourists eager to witness these formidable reptiles.

Disturbing Trends in Crocodile Attacks

This alarming incident follows a string of tragic events involving crocodile attacks in Australia. On July 2, a 12-year-old girl was snatched while swimming with her family in a creek in the neighboring Northern Territory. Unfortunately, her remains were discovered in the following days, leading wildlife rangers to eliminate a 14-foot crocodile.