The autopsy of Piper James, the 19-year-old Canadian backpacker found dead on K'gari island surrounded by dingoes, has revealed physical evidence consistent with drowning and injuries consistent with dingo bites. The Queensland coroners court stated that pre-mortem dingo bites were unlikely to have caused immediate death, and extensive post-mortem bite marks were present.
James's body was discovered on a beach on Monday on the world heritage-listed island, formerly known as Fraser Island, off the Queensland coast. Police had been investigating whether she drowned in dangerous waters or was killed by the wild dogs, as well as other possibilities.
A coroners court spokesperson said on Friday that a preliminary assessment had been completed, and pathology results are awaited to determine the cause of death, a process expected to take several weeks. The court also confirmed there is no evidence that any other person was involved.
It has been speculated that James may have entered the water to escape dingoes before drowning. K'gari is home to about 150 people and a distinct population of dingoes, with violent interactions increasing in recent years. In 2023, a jogger was bitten by a pack and ran into the ocean to escape.
James's father, Todd James, posted on social media about his daughter's love for the outdoors and her work with the British Columbia wildfire services. He described her as having an infectious laugh and kind spirit, and said the family's hearts are shattered by the loss.
