Body found in search for young man who fell into Brisbane River while celebrating with friends
A body has been found during the search for a young man who was reported missing after he fell into the Brisbane River from a pontoon on the weekend.
Patrick Meafua Jr, 23, was celebrating a 21st birthday with family and friends when he fell into the river at the Jindalee Boat Ramp at 5.40am on Sunday.
A search was launched for the man, and emergency services located a body downstream at 8.30am on Tuesday.
It is understood the Mr Meafua was not able to swim.
Friends and family members had jumped into the Brisbane River to try to rescue him at the time but were unable to locate him.
A man in his 20s injured his shoulder diving into the waters in an attempt to help.
Acting Inspector Shane Thow said there was ‘no indication that (the group) was mucking around’ on Sunday.
He said it was unclear whether the group had been drinking prior to the accident.
Patrick Meafua Jr, 23, was celebrating a 21st birthday with family and friends before he slipped into the Brisbane River on Sunday morning
A search began immediately after the 23-year-old slipped into the water and ended with the discovery of a body on Tuesday
Insp Thow thanked nearby boat-owners for offering assistance within minutes of police arriving.
‘We’re most grateful for their efforts,’ he said.
The operation involved crews attached to the Water Police, Dive Squad, general duties police, Marine Rescue, SES, aerial assets and other partners.
A report will be prepared for the Coroner.
