Steve Irwin, 'Crocodile Hunter', Killed by Stingray
Steve Irwin, conservationist and beloved Australian television personality also known as the 'Crocodile Hunter', was killed today by a stingray while filming a documentary at the Great Barrier Reef. Steve was stung in the chest while swimming over the stingray and despite all efforts, rescuers were unable to resuscitate him.
Australia's Prime Minister, John Howard, has said that he is "shocked and distressed at Steve Irwin's sudden, untimely and freakish death." Injuries from stingrays are unusual and the BBC reports that "attacks on humans are a rarity - only one other person is known to have died in Australia from a stingray attack, at St Kilda, Melbourne in 1945."
Mr. Irwin's television program, 'Crocodile Hunter', was first broadcast in Australia 1992 and was later picked up by the Discovery Channel's Animal Planet. Over the years, Steve Irwin's program won him millions of fans and a worldwide audience.
Irwin is survived by his wife Terri, their daughter Bindi Sue, 8, and their son Bob, 2. Steve's loss is mourned around the world, with condolences flooding into his fan site at Animal Planet's website.
Photo © Animal Planet
Comments
Steve Irwin was one in a million. He was kind and careing. And though I never met him in person I am saddened by his death. It is a deep blow and I wish his family the best though this hard time.
Steve Irwin(Crocodile Hunter) My idol….farewell.
I wish his family the best throught this all. I have loved everyone of his shows. He inspired me to love animails and not be afraid of them. Thank you steve Irwin, God Bless you and your family. We will remember you. I know I will never forget The Crocidile Hunter and his amazing adventures.
While I realize it might upset the family and fans, I think any taping done up until his death should be released for public viewing. I want to know as much as possible about what occured, and what might have triggered the rays. He has been accused of being roudy with animals in the past after all.
Tyciol - With respect, I must say that I disagree. I don’t see what benefit it could possibly give for anyone in the public to view it. I feel that, out of respect to his family and his memory, it should never be made public. Just my opinion.