A father of three was killed by a 16-foot crocodile after saving his wife from croc-infested waters.
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Dave Hogbin — a doctor from Newcastle — and his wife, Jane Hogbin, took a camping trip to Queensland state last weekend with their three young sons. On Saturday, however, the doctor fell into crocodile-infested waters and was unable to get out in time.
His family provided a statement regarding their devastating loss, with journalist Alexis Carey, sister-in-law of Dave, writing about the tragedy. While many assumed that Dave had been fishing, Carey revealed that the family had just been walking along a path. Unfortunately, a riverbank collapsed beneath him.
“Despite being tall, strong and fit, the conditions of the terrain meant Dave was unable to get himself out of the water,” her statement read.
“Dave’s final, decisive act was to let go of Jane’s arm when he realized she was falling in, despite knowing she was his only lifeline,” Carey continued. “Within moments, he was taken.”
“Dave’s brave decision in that terrifying moment very likely saved his wife’s life, ensuring she was able to return to their boys,” Carey stated.
Father of Three Killed by Crocodiles After Falling Into Infested Water
Dave’s wife, Jane, now deems her husband a hero.
“We were just enjoying a standard day of our holiday and everything just changed within 30 seconds. He wasn’t doing anything wrong – in fact, he was doing everything right, and this still happened…” she said.
“He saved me – his last act was to not pull me in with him,” Jane continued. “I’m glad I’m still here because it could have been a millionfold worse for everyone involved, not just the boys.”
Thankfully, Dave and Jane’s sons did not witness their father’s tragic death. The family calls it a “small piece of consolation.”
According to Queensland Police, Dave’s remains found in the crocodile will be tested for identification purposes.