The heartbreaking news has emerged that the ‘Most Perfect Son’ is feared dead after being swept off rocks during a tragic accident. What was meant to be a simple outing turned into a nightmare when powerful waves unexpectedly struck, pulling him into the turbulent waters.
Loved ones are now grappling with shock and despair as rescue teams race against time to find him. This devastating incident has left the community in mourning, as friends and family remember a young man known for his kindness, charm, and the joy he brought to those around him.
As the search continues, hope hangs by a thread, and everyone prays for a miracle amid the overwhelming uncertainty.
Read More: Most Perfect Son’ Feared Dead After Being Swept Off Rocks
Teenage Boy Feared Dead After Being Swept Off Rocks at Popular NSW Beach
Tragic Incident at North Avoca Beach
Rescuers have sadly lost hope of finding Luca Bennett, a 15-year-old boy swept off the rocks at North Avoca Beach on the NSW Central Coast. The aspiring basketballer went missing around 3 p.m. on Christmas Eve after a powerful wave struck a group of three teenagers, pulling them into the sea.
While two managed to scramble back onto the rocks and raise the alarm, Luca was swept away.
Extensive Search Efforts Yield No Results
Despite an extensive search on Christmas Day involving multiple agencies—including police, NSW Ambulance, Surf Life Saving NSW, Central Coast Council Lifeguards, and a rescue helicopter—no trace of Luca was found. By Thursday morning, authorities shifted to a recovery phase, scaling back resources following expert advice.
Family and Community Pay Tribute
Heartfelt Tributes Pour In
Tributes poured in online as the community mourned the loss of the “perfect son.” Luca’s parents, Michelle and Jason, expressed their gratitude to rescue teams and supporters but heartbreakingly confirmed his passing.
“Yesterday we lost our darling beloved Luca J. Everyone is doing the best they can to search for him and bring him home to us … we are so grateful. He was the most perfect son and we can’t believe it’s real,” Michelle wrote in a Facebook post.
Memorial Gathering
Friends gathered on Christmas Day beneath a heartfelt tribute etched into a rock face reading:
“Luca Bennett 2009–2024. Forever 15.”
Authorities Urge Caution Around Coastal Rocks
Inspector Benjamin Campbell of Brisbane Water Police District described the tragedy as a poignant reminder of the dangers posed by coastal rocks. He urged everyone to exercise extreme caution near the ocean’s edge:“It’s just a timely reminder of how dangerous the rocks can be around the ocean and how everyone has to be really careful,” he said.
Emergency services and volunteers battled choppy seas and swells up to three metres during the search for Luca.
Related Incidents Highlight Coastal Risks
Serious Fall at Winnie Bay
In a related incident just 15 minutes south, a man in his 30s suffered serious injuries after falling several metres from a rock face at Winnie Bay, Copacabana. He was winched out by helicopter rescue and taken to Royal North Shore Hospital with multiple fractures.
Happy Outcome on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast
Meanwhile, on Christmas Day, a 12-year-old boy reported missing after going fishing at Warana on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast was thankfully found safe and well.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What happened to Luca Bennett?
Luca Bennett, a 15-year-old boy, was swept off the rocks at North Avoca Beach on Christmas Eve after a wave struck him and two other teenagers. Despite extensive search efforts, he is feared dead.
How did the accident occur?
Luca and two friends were on the rocks when a powerful wave hit, sweeping all three into the sea. Two teenagers managed to get back onto the rocks and raised the alarm, but Luca was carried away by the current.
What rescue efforts were made?
Police, NSW Ambulance, Surf Life Saving NSW, Central Coast Council Lifeguards, and a rescue helicopter conducted search operations in difficult sea conditions. After several hours, the search moved to a recovery phase.
Are coastal rocks dangerous?
Yes, coastal rocks can be extremely hazardous, especially when waves and swells are strong. Slippery surfaces and sudden waves can lead to accidents and drowning.
What precautions should visitors take at beaches with rocky areas?
Visitors should avoid standing too close to the water’s edge, watch for warning signs, never turn their back on the ocean, and avoid visiting during high swell or bad weather conditions.
Conclusion
The tragic loss of Luca Bennett is a heartbreaking reminder of the unpredictable dangers posed by coastal environments. While beaches and rocky shores offer natural beauty and recreational opportunities, they demand respect and caution from all visitors.
