It’s been a tragic 24 hours throughout the Hunter region, with emergency services dealing with two separate fatalities.
NSW Ambulance confirmed it was tasked to a boat ramp on Dobinson Drive, at Swansea, about 2.30pm on Tuesday 27 December.
It is believed a scuba diver off Pirrita Island, formerly Coon Island, suffered a medical incident and disappeared from his mates.
They then found him on the bottom of where they were swimming.
Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie volunteers and paramedics worked on the man, believed to be in his 60s, for quite some time while the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service (WRHS) landed in the nearby park to lend assistance.
But, sadly, he was unable to be revived, despite concerted efforts from many people in attendance.
“We would like to thank our local emergency services who responded and worked tirelessly for a better outcome,” a Marine Rescue NSW spokesperson said.
“We’d also like to reach out and express our gratitude to the members of the public who also did their absolute best to help under difficult circumstances.
“No other details are available at this time.”
Later that evening, shortly before 11pm, emergency services were also called to Heddon Greta following reports of a man being shot at a home in Traders Way.
NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the male.
However, he died at the scene.
He is yet to be formally identified but is believed to be aged 25.
Officers from Hunter Valley Police District established a crime scene, which will be examined by specialist forensic police.
Detectives have started an investigation into the incident under Strike Force Roslyn.
For more news stories:
- Police investigate fatal shooting at Heddon Greta
- Left-over Christmas gift delivers Raymond Terrace woman $823,588
- Locals urged to ‘stay safe’ in the water this summer
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