An autopsy has failed to determine the cause of death for a Canadian backpacker whose body was discovered on a Queensland beach, surrounded by dingoes. The coroner has indicated that further testing will be necessary before a definitive cause can be established for 19-year-old Piper James.
Discovery on K'gari Island
Piper James was found deceased near the surf at the Maheno Wreck on K'gari Island, formerly known as Fraser Island, at approximately 6am on Monday. It is understood that she had left for a swim around 5am, with passers-by discovering her body about an hour later.
A small group of dingoes was located around her body, and police have confirmed that the animals had come into contact with her. The investigation into Piper's cause of death is ongoing, with additional testing required to determine whether she drowned, was attacked by dingoes, or succumbed to another cause.
Family's Heartbreaking Account
While the extent of Piper's injuries remains unknown, her father, Todd James, shared a grim interaction with Queensland police. He recounted asking if his family would be able to have an open casket funeral for his daughter.
"He said, 'Mate ... no, mate, it's not going to happen,'" Todd told CBC News. "So it's not like I've got my little girl to go and hold."
Traumatising Experience for Witnesses
British backpackers who were on the island at the time of her death described the "traumatising" moment when her body was found by another group. They revealed that the group had to move her body to a tent until police arrived, which deeply affected many at the campsite.
"I know it's affected a lot of that camp," they told 7NEWS. "I think they're quite traumatised. After finding out that happened, it was a bit of a wake-up call, it was like anything can actually happen."
Trip of a Lifetime Cut Short
Piper had been travelling with a friend, also from Canada, on a five-month "trip of a lifetime" through Australia. Todd James mentioned that Piper had been in regular contact with her family during her travels.
"I believe she took her cell phone with her to call us that morning but that never happened," he said. "She would usually call us at that time."
Todd explained that Piper and her travel companion had toured the island with Dingo Adventures and had become friends with the tour business owners. "Dingo Adventures offered her and Taylor a job and she was going to be there for six weeks before continuing their journey," he said. "Unfortunately, this tragic, horrific event has happened and has ended that dream for Piper."
