🚨 “They had only stepped into shallow water, but tragedy struck…” — Police have confirmed that two people have died, while a pregnant woman is fighting for her life following a river incident on the Mid North Coast, New South Wales, during the Australia Day long weekend. Harrowing details of their final moments are emerging and are chilling to read 😞 READ MORE👇
The two young men who drowned in a river accident on the NSW Mid North Coast during the Australia Day long weekend have been identified.
Indian nationals Sachin and Sahil, aged in their 30s, had been enjoying a day out with their partners when trouble struck at the Never Never River at John Locke Place, in Gleniffer, at 6.45pm on Sunday.
Sachin and Sahil could not be saved after they were pulled from the river, while Sachin’s fiancée was rushed to Coffs Harbour Health Campus in a serious condition.
Loved one Sunita Kalkal has kickstarted a GoFundMe, revealing how the long weekend had quickly taken a turn.
‘They were being responsible and cautious, stepping only into shallow water,’ Ms Kalkal said.
‘In an unforeseeable moment, a strong current surged and swept them away. What should have been an innocent moment turned into an unthinkable tragedy.
‘Sahil leaves behind his seven-month pregnant wife. Sachin’s fiancée, who bravely tried to help, is now hospitalised with critical injuries.’
Ms Kalkal said both men’s fathers are battling serious medical conditions, leaving them unable to bear the financial burden.
Sachin (centre left) and his friend Sahil (centre right) died after they were swept away by a strong current in a river on NSW Mid North Coast on Sunday
Police said a report will be prepared for the coroner after the Never Never River incident
Their families hope to receive support from both Australian and Indian communities, aiming to raise $200,000, with the fundraiser drawing in $103,000 so far.
The funds will go towards repatriating Sachin and Sahil’s bodies to India, covering funeral and repatriation expenses, and supporting the grieving families.
A crime scene was set up after the incident as part of police investigations, and a report will be prepared for the Coroner.