R.I.P.

Woke up this morning to this news on my radio. What a shock!

The Queensland Ambulance Service have confirmed Australia’s ambassador for our wildlife has died suddenly from injuries sustained earlier today while diving, from a stingray barb to the heart.

Steve, also kwown [sic] around the world as 'Crocodile Hunter' was filming for his daughter Bindi's new TV series at the time of the accident around 11am AEST off Batt Reef Port Douglas in Far North Queensland.

A Queensland Rescue helicopter crew, including a doctor and paramedic was flown in to try and revive him. CPR was administered during the rush to nearby Low Isl but to no avail and he was pronounced dead soon after.

He is survived by his wife Terri and two children Bob and Bindy. Terri was in Tasmania trekking Craddle Mountain at the time of the accident and has been informed.

Steve Irwin and his family ran Australia Zoo north of Brisbane where flowers and condolences are already pouring in. He was a wildlife conservationist who donated money earned from his documentaries watched in 130 countries around the world to help wildlife.

A sad loss and a shock to all Australians.

The guy definitely took risks in the course of doing what he loved. Still, what an unlucky way to die.

I used to work in Scripps Institute of Oceanography at an office located right above a seawall off the La Jolla beach. We were the first point of contact for swimmers and surfers who were stung by rays. It's amazing the damage a ray can do! And from what people said, the pain of the venom is absolutely excruciating. Unless you’re stung near a vital organ, however, it's not a life-threatening injury.

My condolences go out to his wife and kids.

Story from here.