A man has died days after he fell into a large hole on a beach in Australia and became buried in sand.
At approximately 2:00 p.m. local time on Saturday, Josh Taylor, 23, was at a secluded campground on Queensland’s Bribie Island when he fell headfirst into a hole that was allegedly dug to roast a pig, akin to the customary Maori cooking method of hangi.
He was buried in the sand and was unable to be extricated from the hole for a while.
According to local news sources, friends and an off-duty paramedic pulled Taylor out of the sand using a rope fastened to his feet.
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They started CPR and kept going until help came. Queensland police said that after being airlifted to the Princess Alexandra Hospital, he passed away on Thursday from his wounds.
Investigators are still working to piece together the events leading up to the incident and think many of the witnesses may still have unspoken statements to make.
In addition to urging those individuals to come forward, police are also looking for anyone with dash-camera footage from Bribie Island’s northern end on Saturday.
For the coroner, a report is currently being prepared.
As per News.com.au, Taylor’s friend reported that the sand beneath its legs gave way while it was positioned on a chair above the pit.
He staggered back. Obviously, he would break the fall by extending his arms. The friend said, “He’s kept falling and knocking on sand while he’s extended his arms.”
As Taylor battled for his life, a GoFundMe was created for the victim’s parents. Over $67,000 has been made thus far.
The fundraiser organizer wrote on the page, “The unthinkable has happened to their beloved son… a vibrant and adventurous soul who has brought so much joy to those around him.”
