A small seaplane carrying European tourists tragically crashed into the ocean off the coast of Western Australia, resulting in the deaths of three individuals on board.

The incident occurred Tuesday evening shortly after the plane departed from Rottnest Island, a well-known tourist spot celebrated for its friendly quokkas.

State Premier Roger Cook confirmed the fatalities, identifying the victims as a 65-year-old Swiss woman, a 60-year-old Danish man, and a 34-year-old local pilot.

Four others were rescued, including a 63-year-old Swiss man, a 58-year-old Danish woman, and an Australian couple in their 60s.

Reports suggest that the plane may have struck a rock during takeoff, though these accounts have not yet been verified.

Premier Cook stated, “Three lives were lost when a seaplane crashed moments after takeoff,” adding that the tragic scene unfolded in front of many tourists, including families with children enjoying their summer holiday.

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Rottnest Island, located approximately 30 kilometers (18 miles) west of Perth, is one of Western Australia’s premier tourist destinations. As search teams continue to recover wreckage from the sea, the cause of the crash remains under investigation.