WA cop dies while scuba diving at Trigg beach, Perth
An off-duty policewoman has tragically drowned in a horror diving accident at a popular beach.
The female officer in her 40s got into trouble while in the water at Trigg Beach, northwest Perth, on Tuesday.
Emergency services, including water police, surf lifesavers and an RAC rescue helicopter, rushed to the scene after beachgoers raised the alarm that a diver was in distress.
The woman was pulled from the water before paramedics administered first aid, but despite their efforts she could not be saved.
WA Police confirmed in a statement that the woman was a police officer who was off duty at the time.
“It is with heavy hearts that we confirm that the diver is a sworn member (First Class Constable) of the WA Police Force, who was off duty at the time,” the statement read.
“Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to her family and colleagues.
“Paying attention to life-and-death situations is an everyday reality for first responders, but incidents involving one of our own are especially difficult for our officers.”
Emergency services, including police and surf lifesavers, rushed to the scene after the alarm was raised that the woman was in distress (photo police and beach visitors on site)
Her death is not being treated as suspicious and a report will be prepared for the coroner.
Dozens of police officers, detectives and members of the water police remained at the scene hours after the incident.
The entrance to nearby Mettams Pool – a popular and family-friendly pool – was cordoned off.
Some officers were seen investigating the scene as they walked along the beach, while dozens of police and ambulance vehicles lined the street.
A tradie who works at a construction site nearby told the Western Australian he previously saw two people, including the woman, go into the water.
The man told the newspaper that police arrived on the scene 30 minutes later.
Diving equipment was also spotted on the sand.
WA Police confirmed in a statement that the woman was a female officer, who was off duty at the time (photo Water Police and a police officer at Trigg Beach in Perth on Tuesday)
WA Police said their Health, Welfare and Safety Department will provide support and assistance to officers affected by the incident.
Trigg Beach is a popular surfing spot among visitors and many people also visit the area for swimming and snorkeling.
Visitors can also go diving at the nearby Marmion Marine Park, which offers divers spectacular views of underwater creatures.