Body of father found in Rockhampton river after he jumped into croc-infested waters to escape police

A father’s body has been found after he jumped into a crocodile and shark-infested river in an attempt to flee police.

Martin Wheeler, 36, is said to have jumped into the Fitzroy River in Rockhampton, Queensland, at around 6pm on Thursday.

He reportedly called for help and disappeared underwater before his body was found at 11pm on Sunday after a three-day search by divers and helicopters.

Chief Inspector Mark Burgess noted that during the search a crocodile was spotted near the pylons of the new Fitzroy Bridge.

The body of Martin Wheeler, 36, (pictured) has been found two days after he jumped into Rockhampton’s crocodile and shark-infested Fitzroy River in an attempt to evade police

Mr Wheeler was known to his friends as ‘Marty’ and had his own business ‘Wheeler Tree Services’.

The company provided gardening services such as tree pruning, tree removal, stump grinding, pruning and lawn care.

Mr Wheel also worked as a groundskeeper, maintenance man and cleaner at Stanwell Power Station.

Officers were patrolling the streets of Rockhampton when they spotted Mr Wheeler, who had a warrant out for his arrest.

After the chase, he was seen jumping into the river and was urged to return to the dike ‘for his own safety’.

“At some point the missing person became distressed and subsequently went underwater,” Insp Burgess said on Friday.

“It is my understanding that he shouted ‘help’, or words of a similar nature, and went under the water, which would indicate some kind of emergency or some kind of event.”

Police noted that there were numerous dangers in the area, with a 4.5 meter crocodile removed from the area in July.

‘It is clear that the Fitzroy River had a history of crocodile sightings. There was also one disturbance last night in the search area, which was near the pylons under the new bridge,” Insp Burgess said.

Insp Burgess also said there are a number of bull sharks in the river, known for their aggressive nature.

Both police and conservationists noted the river’s numerous dangers, including bull sharks and crocodiles (stock image)

In July this year, rangers caught a monstrous 4.5 meter saltwater crocodile in the Brown River.

Senior Wildlife Officer Josh Morris said at the time that wildlife officials had investigated 32 crocodile sightings in the region.

“It’s a reminder that Rockhampton is crocodile country and there is a population of crocodiles living in the Fitzroy River, above and below the barrage,” he said.

“Entering the water in Croc Country is a choice.

“Remember, you are responsible for your own safety in Croc Country.”

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