A jet skier was crushed to death when Malta’s famed “Kissing Elephants” rock formation collapsed on him — moments after an American tourist dove off the rock formation.
The 26-year-old Chinese jet skier was zipping under the natural arch around 7 p.m. Saturday when the rocks collapsed and pinned him under the water, while leaving the 27-year-old woman with him hospitalized with serious injuries, the Times of Malta reported.
The freak accident happened shortly after a 32-year-old American tourist dove from the rock formation, the outlet reported.
The “Kissing Elephants” archway before the formation collapsed. Outdoor Explorers Malta Boat Trips
A picture after the rock formation collapsed. Outdoor Explorers Malta Boat TripsThe diver was reportedly rescued by a passing boat, but was not hospitalized.
A crane on a barge was used to remove the debris, the outlet reported, before divers searched for the jet skier’s body.
Police were able to use surveillance cameras on nearby floating beach club Noma Island to figure out what had happened and how many victims were involved, the Times of Malta reported.
None of the tourists have yet been identified.
The “Kissing Elephants” archway seen in Malta. Daniel Meunier – stock.adobe.com
A ledge in Malta near the “Kissing Elephants” archway. Daniel Meunier – stock.adobe.comThe “Kissing Elephants” is a famous landmark that has wowed visitors for decades.
The tour group Outdoor Explorers Malta called the collapse “an immeasurable tragedy.”
“It is with deep sadness that we must report that one person has lost their life in this incident,” the group wrote on Facebook. “We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of the victim.”
