Man dies after being swept off rocks near Port Stephens, NSW

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a man after he was swept off rocks in the Port Stephens area earlier today.

Officers from Port Stephens-Hunter Police District have been told two men were on rocks at Boulder Bay, south of Fingal Bay, about 10am (Sunday 22 March 2020), when they were swept into the ocean by a wave.

Two friends, who were nearby, threw life jackets to the men, but only one was able to grab it.

Surf lifesavers were alerted and attended the scene and found the body of a 32-year-old man. They rescued the second man, who had a life jacket; he was taken to John Hunter Hospital in a stable condition.

Officers are now waiting to speak with all surviving members of the group to establish the circumstances surrounding the man’s death.

Police believe the deceased man was visiting the area from Merrylands.

A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.

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