Inquest into the Suspected Death of Aaron James BEVERIDGE
Inquest into the Suspected Death of Aaron James BEVERIDGE
Delivered on : 23 January 2025
Delivered at : Perth
Finding of : Acting State Coroner Linton
Recommendations : N/A
Orders/Rules : N/A
Suppression Order : N/A
Summary : Aaron James Beveridge disappeared while surfing at Surfers Point, Prevelly, on 7 June 2024. Aaron was an experienced surfer and surfed at this location often, and was known to many local surfers. Although it was mid-winter at the time of Aaron’s disappearance, and the sea was reported as being very rough, Aaron was known to be able to surf in all conditions, and surfing in this type of weather would not have been unusual for him.
Aaron was sitting on his board near another surfer when a large wave approached them. Both surfers were hit by the wave and went underwater. When they surfaced, they had become separated. Another larger wave approached, and both surfers were dumped again. Aaron was pushed by this second wave onto the nearby reef. His board was stuck vertically, and other surfers suspected his leg rope had become stuck on rocks, trapping him underwater. They tried to assist but were unable to reach Aaron due to the rough conditions. Eventually, Aaron’s board broke free and washed to shore, but Aaron was not seen again.
Local police coordinated a search of the water and the beach, including the use of two jet skis. However, poor visibility and the rough conditions led to the search being terminated at 6.00 pm. The WA Police investigation concluded that Aaron became trapped on a reef while surfing and when his attempts to remove his leg rope were unsuccessful, he most likely drowned.
The Acting State Coroner was satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that Aaron is deceased. Although drowning is the likely cause of death, it is also possible Aaron suffered injuries that contributed to his death. The cause of death must therefore be unascertained, but the Acting State Coroner was satisfied the manner of death was by way of accident.
Catch Words : Long Term Missing Person : Surfing : Land and Sea Search : Accident
Last updated: 21 February 2025