International Student Drowns While Testing Mask at Maroubra Beach
Chinese international student Fangqi Peng, 30, drowned on Sunday afternoon while testing a newly purchased diving mask at Maroubra Beach in Sydney, Australia. He was with three friends who were collecting sea snails at the time.
Sequence of Events
Peng entered the water around 3:10 PM to test the mask. His friends continued searching for sea snails along the shoreline, losing sight of him due to distance and rocks.
At approximately 4:00 PM, when the group planned to depart, they realized Peng had not returned.
Emergency services were then called to the beach to initiate a search. On Tuesday at 12:20 PM, a man's body was located, which authorities believe to be that of the missing swimmer.
A Life in Australia
Peng had moved to Australia from Harbin, China, over two years ago and was studying while working part-time in construction. Friends described him as cheerful, easygoing, and kind-hearted. He was also reportedly confident in the water and frequently visited Maroubra Beach to collect sea snails.
A report concerning the incident will be prepared for the coroner.