Preliminary Cause of Death Revealed for 19-Year-Old Woman Whose Body Was Found on Beach Surrounded by Wild Dogs

Authorities in Queensland are sharing new details after a 19-year-old Canadian woman was found dead on an Australian beach, with a pack of wild dogs nearby.

A preliminary autopsy for Piper James — whose body was discovered on the Queensland island of K’gari on Monday, Jan. 19 — found “evidence consistent with drowning” along with injuries consistent with dingo bites, according to a spokesperson for the Coroners Court of Queensland.

Investigators believe the bite injuries likely happened after she died. The spokesperson said pre-mortem dingo bite marks were not likely to have caused immediate death, adding that there were extensive post-mortem dingo bite marks. (Dingoes are a species of wild dog native to Australia.)

Officials also said there is no evidence that another person was involved in her death.

A final pathology report is expected to take several weeks as authorities work to determine an official cause of death.

The update may provide some clarity for James’ family in Canada, who have been trying to understand the disturbing circumstances in which she was found.

James had served as a firefighter in British Columbia and was known by her family as an avid adventure seeker. Her trip to Australia was intended to be a fun backpacking experience, and she later returned to K’gari to work for six weeks with an adventure group.

During that stay, she reportedly lost her phone. Her mother, Angela James, said she believes Piper went down to the beach early in the morning to get better cell service using a friend’s phone.

Local reports said Piper went for a swim at about 5 a.m. and her body was discovered roughly an hour later. Police later said her remains were found on the beach north of Maheno Wreck, surrounded by about 10 dingoes, according to previous remarks from Wide Bay District Inspector Paul Algie at a news conference.

In an emotional interview with the Australian Broadcasting Company, Angela James described her daughter as fearless and full of life.

“She loved life, she was courageous and strong, and I know she fought to the end,” she said.

“She’s brave and I love her so much and my life will never be the same. She was my best friend,” Angela added. “I just don’t know how I will find happiness again, but I have to for her, one day.”