UPDATE: A 17-year-old girl tragically fell approximately 100 feet to her death at Moffat Beach in Queensland while attempting to capture a sunset photo. The incident unfolded just moments ago, with police responding to the scene at 6:40 PM on December 12, 2023.
Reports confirm that the teenager, accompanied by friends, climbed over a safety fence to find a better vantage point. As they attempted to return to safety, she slipped and fell down a rocky embankment, suffering severe head injuries. Despite the immediate response from authorities, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Detective Peter Hocken from Queensland Police described the scene as heart-wrenching, with her friends witnessing the horrific fall. “They could only watch in horror as she tumbled down the cliff,” he stated. The terrain posed significant challenges for emergency responders, who struggled to reach the site, with some firefighters slipping on the rocky ground.
Witnesses included off-duty medical professionals who rushed to assist but were unable to save the young girl. “They provided as much assistance as they could,” Hocken noted, emphasizing the tragic nature of the event. “Unfortunately, she passed away on scene due to the severity of her injuries.”
Adding to the distress, another woman who attempted to help sustained minor injuries during the rescue attempt. The lookout has been deemed dangerous, with several warnings previously posted urging visitors to stay away from the fences. “Especially at this time of year, and throughout the year, just please respect the barriers in place,” urged Ryan Dubyk from Queensland Fire and Rescue.
Authorities revealed that the girls had taken an unofficial path to the lookout, which featured a non-permanent barrier meant for safety. A formal investigation will be conducted to determine the adequacy of warning signs in place and whether improvements are necessary.
This incident is the latest in a series of tragic falls from popular lookout spots. In 2021, a mother tragically fell from a height while visiting a beauty spot in Cairns, highlighting the ongoing risks at these picturesque locations.
As details continue to emerge, the community is left mourning a young life lost far too soon. Visitors are reminded to adhere to safety warnings and respect barriers to prevent further tragedies.
