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Preliminary Autopsy Finds Canadian Teen on K’gari Likely Drowned, With Dingo Bites Mostly Post‑Mortem

Further tests are pending to confirm the cause of death.

Overview

  • Queensland’s Coroners Court says evidence is consistent with drowning and notes extensive post‑mortem dingo bites, with pre‑mortem bites unlikely to have caused immediate death.
  • There is no evidence that any other person was involved, and final pathology and toxicology results could take several weeks to complete.
  • Preliminary findings include water in the lungs, though experts have not determined whether it resulted from inhalation or entered through wounds.
  • The family has received the preliminary report, her remains are being released for repatriation to Canada, and her parents were invited to an Indigenous smoking ceremony on K’gari.
  • Piper James left for an early‑morning swim around 5 a.m. and was found near the Maheno wreck within about an hour; ranger patrols and safety warnings have been increased as debate over visitor management continues.