Desperate search for missing Rockhampton man who was heard to scream and looked distressed after jumping into croc and shark-infested Fitzroy River to evade police
The search for a missing man who was heard screaming and appeared to be in distress before jumping into crocodile-infested waters has resumed.
Authorities are desperately searching for the man’s whereabouts after he allegedly fled police at around 6pm on Thursday evening and was seen jumping into the Fitzroy River.
Queensland Police had executed a search warrant for the 36-year-old man at an address in Rockhampton, Central Queensland, earlier Thursday.
Queensland police (pictured) are desperately trying to find a missing man who jumped into crocodile-infested waters on Thursday evening
Police allege the man left the scene on foot and was sighted along East Street and Victoria Pde.
A foot chase ensued, but a short time later police say the man ‘entered’ the Fitzroy River to escape the chase.
“Police and emergency services have begun an extensive ground and air search involving multiple aircraft and vessels, but have so far been unable to locate the missing man,” police said on Friday.
‘He is described as Caucasian in appearance, approximately 187cm tall, with a thin build, brown hair and blue eyes.
‘He was last seen wearing a gray shirt and dark gray shorts.
‘The search was suspended at 10.20pm last night and will continue this morning.’
The Fitzroy River is a notorious crocodile zone.
Authorities fear for the man’s safety after his disappearance into the river, a known crocodile haunt (photo)
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.”