Fatal Dampier boat crash victim identified as Mandurah local

Wednesday, 19 July 2023 11:11

By Staff writer

Tye Smith and his friend were on a boat when it crashed into a mooring off Dampier. PIC: Facebook

The victim of a fatal boating accident off Dampier has been identified as Mandurah local Tye Smith.

Tye was on a boat with his friend when police believe they may have hit a mooring at speed at the southern end of West Lewis Island about 11pm on Saturday.

Police say both men were not wearing life jackets.

The friend swam for an hour to shore before walking across rocks for several more hours until he reached other members of his group who were camping.

The urgent search then began for Tye who was unaccounted for.

The search involved multiple vessels, two helicopters and drones.

Tragically, Tye's body was found in the search area on Tuesday.

Tye Smith died following a boating accident off Dampier. PIC: Facebook

The boat was recovered on Monday after it was located submerged off Enderby Island.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.

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