Inquest into the Suspected Death of Charles Donald BATES
Deceased
Charles Donald BATES
Demographics
65y, male
Date of death
1977-07-28
Finding date
2020-03-31
Cause of death
Drowning
AI-generated summary
Charles Donald Bates, aged 65, disappeared while fishing off Ningaloo Reef near Coral Bay on 28 July 1977 after his boat was swamped and capsized by a freak wave. Both men were thrown into the water; his companion survived but Bates disappeared underwater near the reef edge where strong currents were present. Despite immediate and extensive search efforts over several days involving police, volunteers, aircraft and boats, no body was recovered. The coroner established beyond reasonable doubt that Bates died by drowning on that date. This case highlights the hazards of recreational boating, the vulnerability to unexpected maritime conditions, and the challenges of establishing death without a body in remote locations.
AI-generated summary and tagging — may contain inaccuracies; refer to original finding for legal purposes.
Contributing factors
- Freak wave causing boat capsizal
- Strong underwater currents and undertow at reef edge
- Lack of safety equipment/life jackets
- Rough water conditions around reef affecting visibility and safety
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