Stingray Kills Australia's Famed Crocodile Hunter

The news widely circulating on the net tonight is the fact that Steve Irwin, the world famous "Crocodile Hunter" was killed by a stingray while filming an underwater documentary on Monday, September 4 (Australian time).

From the Queensland Police Dept. in Australia comes this short press release:

Australian wildlife personality Steve Irwin has died

The Queensland Police Service advise Australian wildlife personality Steve Irwin has died.

It is believed Mr Irwin collapsed after being stung by a sting-ray at Batt Reef, Low Isle off Port Douglas about 11am. He had been filming a documentary.

After being stung by the sting-ray, his crew called for medical treatment and the Emergency Management Queensland Helicopter responded however Mr Irwin had died.

Mr Irwin’s family has been advised.

Last updated 04/09/2006 Media and Public Affairs Branch 07 3015 2444

Over the years I have jokingly said someday some croc is going to get that guy while he is taping one of his shows. His untimely death was not by croc, but by a stingray, which according to the Wikipedia, rarely ever attacks humans unless provoked.... and usually when they do attack, they usually sting on a person's foot.

Additional Links

• Steve Irwin, Wikipedia
• Animal Planet's Crocodile Hunter site
• Irwin's killer ray was probably startled, News.com.au, 9-4-06
• Quarantine Staff Shocked by Irwin's Death, News.com.au, 9-4-06
• Irwin Was One of the Great Ones, The Australian, 9-4-06
• RIP, The Crocodile Hunter, Discussion at HawaiiThreads.com