NSW Police have launched a formal investigation after a 60-year-old woman was found dead in her vehicle, which was submerged in floodwaters near Dorrigo, west of Coffs Harbour. The tragedy unfolded as the state continues to grapple with extreme weather and widespread flooding.
The woman, identified as Pauline Fitzsimons, was travelling from Sydney to Coffs Harbour on Wednesday night when she encountered floodwaters on Coramba Road, near Wild Cattle Creek Bridge. According to police, she had been driving in convoy with a police officer, who was in a sedan. When they reached the flooded section, the officer checked the water — described as “ankle deep” at the time, per 9 News — and decided it was unsafe for his vehicle to continue. He gave Fitzsimons his phone number, told her to be careful, and advised her not to enter the floodwaters.
Despite the warning, Fitzsimons, who was driving a four-wheel drive, continued on. About half an hour later, she called the officer in distress, saying her vehicle was in trouble. Emergency services searched for her that night, but it wasn’t until Thursday afternoon that her body was found in her car at Brooklana, about 30 kilometres west of Coffs Harbour.
Fitzsimons’ family has challenged the narrative that she acted recklessly. Her son, Tiernan Fitzsimons, told 9 News: “She informed a family member that a police officer had assured her he knew a safe route to Coffs Harbour and was guiding her through. He directed her into the floodwaters and then left her to fend for herself. The notion that our mother was an irresponsible driver is an awful falsehood.”
NSW Police have acknowledged the family’s concerns and confirmed that detectives and a family liaison officer are in contact with them and will keep them informed throughout the investigation.
NSW Police said to 9 News, “The investigation will examine the full circumstances surrounding the incident, the officer’s interaction with the woman prior, the weather conditions at the time and the response of emergency services.”
At a press conference, Premier Chris Minns was asked about the family’s claims. He said, “I can’t speak to it … There will be a full investigation. I’m not prepared in the absence of an investigation to condemn the police or the police officer involved. I would never want to say anything to add to their burden today. They’re obviously going through a terrible, terrible time.”
Assistant Commissioner Waddell also noted that the officer involved is “very traumatised and we’re wrapping support services around him. It’s just a tragic circumstance”.
Police have confirmed that a comprehensive report will be prepared for the Coroner. Detectives are investigating all aspects of the incident, including the officer’s actions, the advice given, and the broader emergency response.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was asked to comment on the situation and said, “I don’t think it would be appropriate for me to comment on an individual circumstance, except to say this: my heart goes out to the family and loved ones of this woman.”
Authorities have repeatedly urged people not to drive through floodwaters, with NSW SES Commissioner Michael Wassing warning, “You cannot drive through floodwaters. It is taking up valuable emergency services personnel time, efforts and priorities that are needed elsewhere.”
The SES has responded to more than 1,000 incidents in 24 hours, including hundreds of flood rescues, most involving vehicles in floodwaters. As of the latest updates, there were still over 140 flood warnings across NSW, with tens of thousands of people isolated and major rivers still rising.
For a full list of flood warnings in NSW, click HERE.
Lead image: 9News
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