Human remains have been found inside the 4.9-meter crocodile captured from the Annan River.
Queensland police said a formal identification process was underway, but the remains were believed to be those of a missing man from New South Wales.
The 40-year-old was reported missing after he fell from a riverbank on Saturday afternoon and was subsequently dragged into the river by the crocodile, as witnessed by his wife and children.
The incident sparked a major search operation involving police, wildlife officers, and drones.
The Department of Environment, Science and Innovation’s Daniel Guymer said: “There have been some suggestions that the crocodile may have a white scar on its snout.”
After an extensive search, the reptile was captured and euthanised by wildlife officers on Monday afternoon.
Confirmatory tests are pending to verify the identity of the remains.
Acting Chief Superintendent Shane Holmes confirmed the man’s fall from a significant height and the subsequent crocodile attack.
“Wildlife officers have humanely euthanised a large crocodile that is believed to be responsible for the fatal attack on the Annan River,” said in a statement published by the department.
The search was officially suspended following the discovery of the remains.
“Feeding crocodiles leads to dangerous interactions with humans and increases the risk of attacks,” a department spokesperson said.
“People should never feed crocodiles or leave food scraps in accessible areas. These animals have evolved to hunt for their own food and feeding them disrupts their natural behaviour.”
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