Body of Australian tourist found in Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay authorities have found the body of an Australian tourist who fell off a boat tour on February 6.

Ha Long Bay authorities have found the body of an Australian tourist who fell off a boat tour on February 6.

Pham Hong Ha, chairman of Ha Long City, said the tourist was identified as Stephen John Scott, born in 1963 and was leading a 16-member group on the Bien Ngoc 20 tour boat.

The incident occurred while the group were visiting Sung Sot Cave, near Ti Top Island. At 9 am, hearing loud noises, people rushed to the deck but only saw a pair of footwear left. At departure time, the ship had 16 foreign tourists, seven crew, one waiter and a tour guide.

 

The incident occurred near Ti Top Island

Eight rescuers had searched for him after they received the news. Vice Chairman of Quang Ninh Province People's Committee Vu Van Dien directed the search and rescue mission with help from the chairman of Ha Long City. Quang Ninh Province police were asked to investigate the case.

At 1.25 pm, the body was found 50 metres away from the ship. It is suspected that the tourist had committed suicide as a 20kg dumbbell was found tied to his feet. The body has been transferred to the shore for further investigation.