Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin dead

[Gusto md]

http://www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,20349888-2,00.html


September 04, 2006 02:14pm



THE Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin, is dead.

He was killed in a freak accident in Cairns, police sources said. It is understood he was killed by a sting-ray barb that went through his chest.

He was swimming off the Low Isles at Port Douglas filming an underwater documentary and that's when it occured.

Ambulance officers confirmed they attended a reef fatality this morning at Batt Reef off Port Douglas.

[WindRavenX]

1. oh no

:cry: :cry:

I REALLY hope it wasn't an obvious crocodile accident...

[Scurrilous]

2. According to the link...

...it was a stingray.

[WindRavenX]

4. thru his chest

omg, how awful :(

[LostinVA]

120. What a freak thging to happen, after all he's done

And with two small kids, too.... damn.

[Dulcinea]

122. How awful!

I'm terrified of snakes, but always enjoyed his show. RIP Steve, & my deepest condolences to your family & friends. O8)

[Blue Gardener]

132. The world has lost a great conservationist

He truly cared about animals and the environment. He was a good man. I hope his legacy will live on.
RIP Steve Irwin. :cry:

[_dynamicdems]

168. That is so terrible sad.

He seemed like such a wonderful person. Deepest condolences to his family.

This guy was so good with animals and respectful of nature and the environment. He was always happy and had a real zest for life. Only the good. :cry:

His bright smile will be missed.

[Fenris]

3. Holy cow!

That sounds like a painful way to die. :(

[NEOBuckeye]

69. Reports say it was instant

If it's any consolation, he probably didn't even have a chance to think about it. But still...

[Blaq Dem]

106. I always knew he would be killed by somethin'

Everytime I watched him on TV I screamed at him. He didn't have to play with dangerous animals to impress me. He had so many near-misses. He has small children which makes it even more tragic.

The sting ray zapped him straight to his heart. Oh crap!

[shadowknows69]

116. Very tragic indeed but it goes to show you

You keep daring Mother Nature to kill you and I guarantee she will find a way to oblige.

[flamingyouth]

5. Poor guy

Sounds like a terrible death. :(

My heart goes out to his family. What a shock for them.

[Duer 157099]

6. That's very upsetting

But then, considering his line of work, he was tempting fate. He loved doing it, so in a way, it was his choice (I always thought he was freakin' nuts).

I'm sorry that we've lost him, I really enjoyed him. And he's got a young daughter, so sad

[TimeChaser]

7. No!

:cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry:

As a kid who's always wanted to learn about animals and is now a Zoology major, this breaks my heart

:cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry:

[TomInTib]

8. Words just just do not allow me..

This is one of those bizarre moments in time.

[yorkiemommie1]

9. this i so sad

i'm so sorry for him and his family. i really enjoyed his shows.

[LostInAnomie]

10. How horrible!

Everyone knew he had a dangerous job but I never actually thought anything would ever happen to him.

I hope his wife and kids have people there to comfort them.

[MADem]

48. His wife is off trekking, she may not yet know NT

[countmyvote4real]

55. I hope they have life insurance considering his "job."

So sorry. What a shock.

[Divine Discontent]

70. really don't think that's a concern

considering he was already a millionaire. I think, considering they already had wealth. (not trying to be snotty, just saying, insurance is unimportant in his case)


sorry to his fans for their loss. risky job.

[countmyvote4real]

100. I hope that you're right, but we'll see what "funds" develop. n/t

[Subdivisions]

11. Oh NO! I love Steve! Poor little Bindy and Bobby.

I was always concerned that something bad might happen to him. Oh no. Just heartbreaking if confirmed.

[LostinVA]

121. Especially little Bindi -- she's her Daddy's girl...

[RamboLiberal]

12. OMG! - This is terrible

I feel sorry for his wife Terri and his kids and to the rest of his family. Is his father still alive, cause I know from the shows he started Steve's fascination with crocs?

Sometimes he drove me nuts and sometimes I was almost rooting for the Croc, but I came to admire his daring and his obvious affection and care for animals that most of us wouldn't call exactly cuddly.

I guess rays are dangerous, but never the creature I expected to take out Steve Irwin

RIP Steve!

[geomon666]

57. Stingrays are very dangerous.

"A stingray barb has dozens of curved serrations on its edges and is covered by a sheath containing venom glands. The slightest cut on a human can cause the affected area and lymph nodes to swell. The extreme pain alone can send the victim into shock."

It's also known that stingray barbs can penetrate very dense materials like wood. So you can imagine what it could do to a human.

[sakabatou]

63. I know

Terrible way to die.

[kysrsoze]

164. SOME stingrays are dangerous. I read a bit more on the injury

This was a large bull ray, which is much more dangerous than the stingrays in the Caribbean - but it's still very unusual that it killed him. What is with all the ultra-dangerous sea animals around Australia anyway? There are also sea snakes and giant man-o-wars.

[shanti]

207. australia

not just the sea animals that are ultra-dangerous. i read once that australia has the highest number of venomous creatures in the world. you have to agree that the animals in australia are very different.

[Ferret Annica]

216. Never heard of this guy

Too bad about the death anyway.

[bleedingheart]

135. I know exactly what you are talking about

at first he seemed like some sort of buffoon that was tempting death all the time...and then you find out that he is this big conservationist and truly loved what he was doing with them and to help them.

It is such a tragedy..

[Algorem]

Crikey.

[TreasonousBastard]

13. DAMN! But, I kinda thought he was living on...

borrowed time with all his antics.

I think that's the way he wanted to go out. Not that he had a death wish, but some people just don't see a future in old age.

[greccogirl]

75. Is this the guy

that was on the news way back holding his infant son in one hand and feeding a huge gator that was leaping up to him in the other?

[Ignacio Upton]

86. Yes

When I first read this article, I actually thought it was a joke. But then after I second I realized that he's really dead, and that this is no joke. I'm not surprised, though, considering his line of work is very risky. My heart goes out to his family, especially his kids.

[TreasonousBastard]

113. That's him. He didn't get ripped...

apart the way Britney Spears or Michael Jackson did when they did stupid stuff with their kids, though. Even though that was a much more dangerous stunt.

Of course, he knew what he was doing, unlike Spears and Jackson.

[greccogirl]

194. Oh I disagree

there - No one "knows" what they are doing in that situation. It was a stupid thing to do.

[TankLV]

206. See post 80 below. I totally agree with the poster.

Yes it's "sad" he died - but one less idiot for the "jean" pool...

Good for his conservation efforts - bad fathering.

Condolences to his family...

[Subdivisions]

14. NineMSN is jammed...

More info: http://ninemsn.com.au/

Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_Irwin

[proud2BlibKansan]

28. From the Wikipedia article:

Steve Irwin was active in politics and was a supporter of the conservative Liberal Party of Australia. In particular, he strongly supported the incumbent Prime Minister John Howard.

[NEOBuckeye]

74. Is that really relevant right now?

I'm hardly a fan of post-modern conservatives and conservatism. But politics aside, Irwin did care very much for and represent the environment and wildlife. For anyone who also cares about those things, his death was both untimely and devestating.

I think we lost a good friend today.

[proud2BlibKansan]

83. No but it makes it all seem more tragic to me

[ForrestGump]

15. I haven't seen his show in a long time

But -- for all his larrikin behavior -- I always really appreciated his promoting a strong conservation message. He was a good guy and he made a difference.

He was too young with too much left to do but at least died doing something he loved, and that's not such a bad way to go when it's your time.

Rest in peace, Steve-O. And thank you. :cry:

[951-Riverside]

16. RIP Steve

:cry:

I couldnt wait for him to bring Reggie the aligator in, I believe he was planning to have a special on the tonight show with Leno.

[Kajsa]

192. I agree, 951- Riverside.

Having watched 'Crocodile Hunter' for years, I saw that Steve was very dedicated to
protecting the animals he loved.

I too, was waiting for him to finally capture Reggie, and take him to a wildlife santuary.
No one has been able to get Reggie for over a year now. They should have asked Steve
for his help in the beginning of the Reggie saga.

Here's the latest on Reggie;

http://www.nbc4.tv/news/8865988/detail.html

We have lost a good person who tried to make a difference in our world.

Rest in Peace, Steve.

:cry:

[PatrioticLeftie]

17. What?

Man, that's horrible.

[JI7]

18. his poor family

they were so happy together and loved doing what they did. this is very sad news. hard to believe.

[AussieDave]

19. Another link - Brisbane Courier-Mail

http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,20349534-952,00.html

This is going to be treated as a national tragedy here - he's featuring in ads now running on quarantine issues, so it's going to hit home very hard.

[roguevalley]

21. this is horrendous news. I am very sorry to hear this.

[Triana]

36. I'm sorry for the Aussies - you've lost a great guy...

..he'll be missed the world over - our condolences are with you. I'm so sorry guys. Do give his family lots of support over there! They'll need it. Godspeed, Steve.

[ginnyinWI]

20. he was a good guy (pic of Steve and his wife)

[Milspec]

166. Well I didn't know them

But it always seemed from the shows I've seen that they had a very strong bond together. RIP Steve and my heartfelt condolences to the family

[Greeby]

22. Feck

He's finally done it. He's finally tempted fate once too often :(

[Subdivisions]

23. Breaking at CNN.com - Story soon. :(

[Subdivisions]

49. CNN has the story now. Same wire report. eom

[varkam]

24. Tragic.

I never watched him much, but I always got the impression he loved what he did. My heart goes out to his family and fans.

[DemInDistress]

25. didn't he also crawl on the ground and sneak up on snakes?

and some very poisonous snakes at that. Yes, he was a thrill seeker but very entertaining. I liked him and his antics..

R.I.P. Steve. we'll all miss you

[fortyfeetunder]

217. Top Ten Poisonous Snakes -- my first introduction to Irwin...

Saw it one new year's eve (now you know I don't have a life), and it was interesting show. His approach to introducing the snakes was nerve-racking, like whether he was going to lay victim while handling these snakes. But I got to appreciate what he was trying to teach by exploring animal behaviour.

I look at Irwin as an educator, husband and father, and his loss is irreparable to his family and to his fans worldwide.

[RFKHumphreyObama]

26. Oh no, it seems this news story is real

I was hoping against hope that this was some kind of practical joke in very poor taste but apparently not

:cry: :cry: :cry: :cry:

That is so, so, so very awful and very tragic. What a sad, sad, sad thing to have happened. He was so young and had a young wife and young family -what a tragic loss. I remember watching him and his wife being interviewed and how full of life and full of enthusiasm they were.

I'm just speechless. My thoughts, prayers, condolences to his wife and kids. This is just such a senselss, pointless tragedy:cry: cry: :cry:

RIP Steve Irwin.

[calimary]

210. Bummer, isn't it?

I guess we can find some consolation in the fact that he died doing what he loved - out where the wild things are. I'd guess that's the kind of passing anybody might hope for. I hope he didn't suffer.

[Kablooie]

27. Feels kinda like the shock when Diana died.

Condolences to his family.

[Terre]

58. Gee, I'm not the only one

that had that initial impression. While I'm not quite as shocked as I was with Di's death, the feeling is almost the same.

[donheld]

119. No you're not the only one, I'm right with you

I'm feel the same way I felt the night I heard of Diana's death. My thoughts will be with Terri and the children. He may have lived on the edge, but he loved his animals. He educated many of us on many many things.

[OhioChick]

29. What a shock!

I really enjoyed watching his documentaries and shows.

[NEOBuckeye]

30. His poor wife and daughter...

I'm very sad to hear about this.

[Subdivisions]

37. They just had a son, Robert, also. He's maybe just over a year...

[ThsMchneKilsFascists]

87. here's the little tyke

[keopeli]

99. The article says his son is now 3 years old. nt

[BluePatriot]

31. How awful...

...poor guy, what a way to go.

[Radioactive]

32. This sucks so badly!

Steve was awesome!

[ginnyinWI]

33. MSNBC has the Reuters link

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/14663786/

[silverweb]

42. How awful!

That would have been just like being stabbed in the chest with a dagger.

Just to give you an idea, here's what a stingray barb looks like and how big it is:



Picture found at http://www.seaturtlehospital.org/ray.html

[go west young man]

161. Such a tragedy... such a great guy..Here's a pic of a BullRay.

http://www.scubatravel.co.uk/bullray.html

[kestrel91316]

172. I hear they can be up to TEN INCHES LONG. The poor guy got

knifed through the heart with a poisoned dagger. I can almost guarantee it was very painful until he lost consciousness from the drop in blood pressure from the heart damage. Hopefully only a very few seconds.

[bluedeminredstate]

184. Call me thick...but

what exactly am I looking at here? The right side of the picture looks kind of like a giraffe face. Can you orient me to what's what here? Sorry - it's like when you look at something and can't see what's really in front of you until someone points it out and then you have the forehead slapping moment... well, that's what this picture is doing to me. I've stared at it so much that I have no idea what the hell I'm seeing.
:crazy:

on edit: *slaps forehead* OK, now I get what I'm looking at here. I swear I'm not a total idiot usually, but the pic had me a little confused. Too bad I didn't figure this out before I let everyone in this thread know that Chimpy probably has more intelligence than I was displaying moments ago! :)

[Triana]

34. This is very sad...

...I feel bad for his wife and daughter. What a horrible, sudden tragedy. That used to be one of my fave shows. I havent' had cable tv (or my tv on) in a few years but that show was a favorite. He was so funny and entertaining. Damn...he'll certainly be missed.

[Fox Mulder]

35. Very sad.

He made a lot of people interested in biology and conservation with his show.

He will be missed. :(

[truthisfreedom]

38. i wonder why we have such an affinity for people who risk their lives with

wild animals? maybe we secretly want to be just like him, tempting fate.

may his memory live long and his wife and children recover.

[The Traveler]

39. The kids will take this hard

With his film work, he did a lot to educate my young about nature. He was funny and brave and will be mised.

[Lifelong Protester]

40. Very sad, and I feel bad for his family.

His personality was just so lively, hard to not like him as he was so in to what he did. Condolences to all of our Aussie members here.

[951-Riverside]

41. If this story is false I hope someone guts the punk who put this out...

[MADem]

44. It isn't. the major outlets have it, NT

[Subdivisions]

45. I didn't want to believe it either. RIP Steve. I will miss you.

[AussieDave]

47. Unfortunately, not a hoax

http://www.abc.net.au/news/newsitems/200609/s1732439.htm

He paid a heavy price in criticism when he held his baby son Bob while feeding crocodiles - he got that message. A hoax like this would not have been his style - he just didn't need to do it - he regained his popularity pretty quickly after that incident so a hoax would have been pointless.



(edited for spelling)

[frankly_fedup2]

59. Too many world wide papers are showing the headlines. Unfortunately,

I believe it must be true. I just turned the TV to CNN as well as MSNBC and even FOX and there is no one reporting this.

I wonder if his wife has been notified. How terrible if she hears about it on the TV or second hand somehow.

Surely they would be sure she knew before they printed it.

Then, again, Tori Spelling heard about her dad's death through the media (supposedly it was reported). Her mother never contacted her right when her dad was passing. If I were Tori, I would have thrown a fit.

[MADem]

43. Azzam the American must be BULLSHIT

The Croc Hunter, may he RIP, will totally OBLITERATE that fat little terra-turd and his video with his pal KNOTHEAD the Magnificent.

No one's gonna wanna talk about some dork from a California suburb that went all TALIBAN, wanting/demanding that everyone to convert to (cough) Islam ( which means PEACE...but this asshole's conditions are essentially under penalty of death--talk about perversion of a religion!) when one can talk about an over-the-top dead guy who dangled his baby over a snapping croc, now will they?

Who's more interesting? Croc Guy, or Stuttering Fatboy?

The late Croc Guy, Rest His Soul, beats Dork-O hands down.

[greccogirl]

80. I thought so!

I thought this was the guy that let a huge croc get close to his baby. What a STUPID thing to do. And now his death shows that you can't "be in control" as he said he was.

Steve Irwin, Siegfreid and Roy, and the Grizzly Man. All learning that wild animals are dangerous, and wild.

[arewenotdemo]

118. he should wind up with a Darwin Award for this stunt

[gully]

160. It's considered a freak accident.

On cruise ship vacations people are taken out on boats to "pet" stingrays. I think they'll reconsider now?

[LittleClarkie]

162. What stunt? I haven't heard what happened exactly

Did he surprise the thing?

[LostinVA]

176. No, it was just a freak accident

[Name removed]

155. Deleted sub-thread

Sub-thread removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[LostinVA]

177. Steve already knew this -- he'd been working with wildlife

since he was a boy; his death doesn't even come CLOSE to "Grizzly Man's." In addition, Steve Irwin was a known conservationist and protector of animals. He also did loads of pro bono humanitarian work for animals.

He never, ever said he was "in control" of animals.

The whole baby thing? Guess you've never spent much time with either a farming or fishing/crabbing family -- your sensitive head would have exploded.

You don't have to like the guy, but you can have your own opinion, but NOT your own facts.

[ronnie624]

46. Five years ago I told a friend,

while watching one of Steve Irwin's documentaries, I did not expect him to live much longer. He was being particularly provocative to a very large crocodile. I had seen some of his earlier documentaries, and his behavior did not seem near as risky back then. As his popularity soared, he was probably under pressure to perform in order to make the "show" as exciting as possible.

I have always considered him rather foolish, and I prefer wildlife documentaries in which there is no human interaction, but apparently, many Americans can't develop an interest in wildlife unless someone is in danger of being mauled, trampled or gored.

[Subdivisions]

52. You know, I can see your point. I sorta felt the same way when

he first showed up on the scene. I never watched him thinking I can't wait to see that croc snap his head off. It was his obvious love of wildlife and teaching about it and his enthusiasm that won me over.

[Dover]

79. Yeah, he seemed to challenge nature rather than hold it in reverence.

Very rough and not a good model, imo. And I too, felt his life would end in some accident with animals...mother nature asserting herself. Nonetheless, very sad.

[LostinVA]

179. If you knew about his work behind the scenes, you would know

He hold nature -- and all her offspring -- in great reverence.

[Irreverend IX]

199. Yeah, but the ironic part is...

He got killed by a creature that doesn't normally present a threat to humans. Rays generally prefer to flee people rather than sting them, and for the stingray to hit the heart is a one-in-a-million chance. Most ray sting victims are, at most, put out of comission for a couple days.

[IndianaGreen]

50. He shall be missed!

Condolences to his family!

RIP Steve!

[BrotherBuzz]

51. Crikey, first Harriet, now Steve...

It's not been a good year for the Australia Zoo. Steve, you were one bizarre dude, but I truly appreciated what you did. Take care of dear old Harriet until I catch up with you and can offer help.

[RamboLiberal]

53. SMH Report and Melbourne Age

Television personality and environmentalist Steve Irwin has died after being stung by a stingray while filming off north Queensland.

Known worldwide as the Crocodile Hunter, the 44-year-old was famous for his enthusiasm for wildlife and his catchcry "Crikey!''.

The Queensland Police Service issued a statement saying Mr Irwin collapsed after being stung at Batt Reef, Lowe Isles off Port Douglas about 11am. He had been filming a documentary.

After being stung by the sting-ray, his crew called for medical treatment and the Queensland Rescue Helicopter responded.

Police said Mr Irwin's family has been advised.

http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/crocodile-hunter-reported-dead/2006/09/04/1157222051512.html

A spokesman for the Queensland Ambulance Service said officers attended the scene on Low Isles via helicopter at 12.04pm today and arrived back in Cairns at 12.53pm; Mr Irwin was dead on arrival.

He said the cause of death was apparently a sting ray barb to the chest, which possibly caused a heart attack.

"The area it was delivered to was the problem. A sting ray hit to the chest is a big problem," he said.

http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/crocodile-man-steve-irwin-dies/2006/09/04/1157222051494.html

[RamboLiberal]

54. And more from SMH Report

Mr Irwin had a puncture wound to the left side of his chest and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Queensland government sources had earlier said a stingray barb had punctured Irwin's chest.

Mr Irwin's body was being flown to Cairns by helicopter.

It is believed his American-born wife Terri is trekking on Cradle Mountain in Tasmania when she was informed.

The Irwins have two children, an eight-year-old a daughter, Bindi Sue, and a three-year-old son, Robert Clarence, usually known as Bob.

http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/crocodile-hunter-reported-dead/2006/09/04/1157222051512.html

[breakaleg]

56. Wow! For a minute I misread this and assumed it was a box jellyfish

that killed him. But the season for that is October until April. I guess he was trying to get his work in before that time came.

[Skittles]

60. he fascinated, repelled, and educated at the same time

very unique person

[zonkers]

61. Face it guys, if you are THE CROC HUNTER, that's the right way to go. I

love that enthusiastic nutty guy more than I ever did. Here's to you Steve.

[AussieDave]

65. I agree - he would have wanted to go while on the adventure thing

though it's a lot sooner than he may have wished.

[zonkers]

68. His kid will grow up and find the fish that killed his dad.

Maybe not. I'm being silly but it does sort of remind me of Steve Zissou in Life Aquatic. edited.

[Posteritatis]

71. Ayep, but still

I think I would've rather it happened to him while he was a hundred and twelve and chasing impossibly dangerous things than forty-four and chasing impossibly dangerous things.

You're right in that if he could pick his out that'd probably be it, though. Still... damn.

[NEOBuckeye]

76. I'm sure he would have wanted more time with his kids, to watch them grow

They're so young, really. They'll have the videos and documentaries, no doubt, and their Mom will have much to share with them. But they won't have any real memories of being with him in person. That's what's really sad for them.

[krispos42]

107. I know how I want to die...

At the age of 95, in the bed of a 22-year-old lingere model, shot by her jealous boyfriend. :-)

Well, he died doing what he loved. But I know he would have preferred to see his kids grow up and do all the family things you're suppose to do with them.

[Placebo]

62. Jesus Mary!

Of all the things, a sting-ray barb through the chest.

Bye Steve! All good things come to an end, unfortunately.

[Placebo]

64. OMG look what Wikipedia has for his death:

I hope someone corrects that ASAP.

[krispos42]

109. It's been changed already

Wikipedia is not real good for breaking events. It's good because lots of obscure knowledge is availble by the die-hards that love that stuff, but for current events...

Anyway, this is what it says now:

<snip>

Death

In the early afternoon of September 4, 2006, Irwin was fatally stung in the chest by a stingray barb off the Great Barrier Reef in Australia while filming an underwater documentary.

Shortly after 11:00 a.m. local time (01:00 UTC), Irwin was filming in the Low Isles near Port Douglas, north of Cairns, Queensland, Australia, where he was stung either through his heart<5> or through the left side of his chest<6> and suffered a fatal heart attack.<7> After he was stung, his crew called for medical help and the Queensland Rescue Helicopter responded, taking him to Cairns Base Hospital.<8> However, Irwin was immediately pronounced dead at the scene.<9> The Queensland Police Service notified his family and released a statement for the media concerning the event.

[NickB79]

193. From a South Park skit

Where Steve hunts down a man from 1995 found frozen in ice.

[JVS]

203. LOL!

[AussieDave]

66. A map showing the area where he died:

off Port Douglas in far north Queensland

http://graphics.news.com.au/multimedia/060904_steveIrwin/index.html

[951-Riverside]

72. Dave do you know of any australian radio stations covering this?

If they're streaming on the internet give me a link.

Thanks!

[951-Riverside]

88. I found a bunch of links

http://www.mikesradioworld.com/oceania.html

Right now I'm listning to 3AW

[Andrushka]

94. Poor Steve!

"Right now I'm listning to 3AW"

Hope you wash your hands afterwards! Some ugly talkback on that station, mate.

[951-Riverside]

97. Can you recommend a station?

[Violet_Crumble]

102. If yr still awake, Hack's on Triple J now...

They'd be talking about it...

http://www.abc.net.au/triplej/listen/default.htm

[AussieDave]

127. As well as Triple J, there's also other ABC stations:

Radio National, local radio and Radio Australia

http://www.abc.net.au/radio/listenlive.htm

[junior college]

67. Bummer

My most sincere condolences go out to his family and friends. That being said, I never did like that guy. Whenever I saw him on tv he always seemed to be harassing animals.

[Divine Discontent]

73. I love animals and hate to see them mistreated

he seemed like nice enough guy, but sometimes I thought the same thing you did. I guess being in his field, he had to make certain movements that were required to protect him. :shrug:


www.cafepress.com/warisprofitable <<<--- check it out! 100's of new funny stickers/shirts

[libhill]

95. I'd have to agree -

but I guess "that's showbiz". I remember seeing some old reruns of the original "Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom", and they had some guy from New Zealand who was similar to Steve, always wrestling with crocodiles and getting way to close for comfort to wild animals. I suppose that's what draws the viewers in...

[wtmusic]

137. thank you

He, like Tim Treadwell, crossed the line between sincere conservation efforts and self-promotion at wild animals' expense.

His death is a shame, it's tragic, but it was truly just a matter of time.

[Canuckistanian]

204. At least he wasn't killing them

Then claiming them as a 'trophy'.

He actually was an advocate for Australian wildlife, educating as well as sensationalizing.

You may disagree with his methods, but his intentions were laudable.

[Exultant Democracy]

77. My heart goes out to his family n/t

[dolo amber]

78. How not shocked by this am I?

Best to his family and all...but really? Who didn't see this coming? :shrug:

[greccogirl]

81. I remember watching this

guy put his infant child's life in danger and thought him an idiot then. I'm sorry to see him die, but this was coming............. like the grizzly man.

[TankLV]

208. I thought as much then and since too.

One less idiot for the "jean" pool...

Too bad for his family nonetheless...

[NYC Liberal]

92. I think it's one of those things that everyone "expects" will happen,

but on the other hand, they don't really think it actually WILL. Which is why it's a shock now that the day has come.

[Bluebear]

82. He did so much to try to preserve mother earth...

Thank you for everything, Steve.

[Random_Australian]

84. Wow - the man seemed to have such an aura of invincibility, this is hard

to believe. (Don't worry, it has been on our news many a time already so I well believe it)

[Pachamama]

85. I got to meet him last year while I was in DC for the Downing Street Memo

hearings that John Conyers was holding and where Joe Wilson, Cindy Sheehan and Ray McGovern testified.

I was staying at the Hay Adams hotel near Lafayette square and after coming back from a busy day of watching the hearings and protesting out front of the White House, I went to the dining room of the Hotel. It's a small hotel and as I sat there eating, seated right next to me was Steve Irwin and a group of people eating dinner. I got the opportunity to speak with him a couple of times because he was enamored with my Pachababy. He was a very likeable fellow and even though I had been outraged when I saw the footage of him with his kid and the crocodile, I always loved his shows and he was really nice when I chatted with him and super sweet with my child.

He was a man who clearly lived life with no fear and with intensity and bordering danger at all times. I am not surprised to hear that he has died at such a young age and how he died. I never had any doubt as to how he would go and that it would be just a matter of time. The sad thing ofcourse is for his children and wife. He spoke very lovingly about his kids when he chatted with me. They are so young and now their Dad is gone.

May he rest in peace and may they grow up in peace and know he loved them.

Namaste

[catzies]

146. What a cool story, thanks for sharing it.

And RIP Steve and condolences to Terri, Bindi and Bobby.

[Wetzelbill]

89. oh man, I used to love that show

sad day.... :(

[MiniMe]

90. I always thought a croc would get him. RIP Steve.

[MnFats]

91. some interesting information at this site...Damn this is tragic..

...wonder if he was overconfident...


look here:
http://www.potamotrygon.de/fremdes/stingray%20article.htm

"In short, the ``sting" of the stingray is a well-crafted, trauma- and venom-inducing apparatus that has survived the test of time over millions of years. Since it is not used for food gathering, its purpose may be purely defensive. The actual venom glands were passed upwards to some forms of more advanced bony fishes and air-breathing aquatic and terrestrial snakes, culminating, perhaps, in the world's only extant venomous mammals: the echnida and the duckbilled platypus, both of Australia. Curiously, in this same part of the world there resides the only known venomous bird: the oil bird of Papua, New Guinea. Evolutionary biologists have not, however, studied the evolution of venom glands and envenomating as a distinct subject, so therefore it is only possible to speculate how stingray venom glands and delivery systems are related to venom-producing functions in more advanced life form..."


more from the article...eerie. gawd what a way to go. i hope as some have suggested it was quick, because it sounds like it really sucks..


f any part of the trunk (chest, abdomen, groin) is a serious medical emergency. Introduction of the ray's necrotizing venom directly into the body cavity of a person has been known to cause insidious necrotizing effects on the heart and other internal organs, and death is often inevitable.
All stingray venoms are very similar. They contain serotonin, 5-nucleotidase, and phosphodiesterase. The latter two enzymes are responsible for the necrosis and tissue breakdown seen in stingray envenomations; serotonin is the cause of inexorable pain in the region of the injury.

[Jamastiene]

93. My heart goes out to Terri, Bindi, and little Bob.

Steve was a hero of mine. He really thought about the animals first. Not many people in this world would spend their time mucking around in croc-infested waters to save an animal that is one of our last surviving dinosaurs. Not many people would have put themselves in harm's way to protect animals. Not many people would put their money where their mouth is to protect and save animals not normally considered fuzzy and cute by the majority, but Steve Irwin did. He fought for them because they are important in our world, more important than we often realize. Where would we be without every species we have on this planet? We would be up to our necks in dead bodies, disease, sickness, and death without the animals who do our dirty work. Steve pointed out that the not-so-fuzzy-cute species have a role in nature as well as the cute ones do. Goodbye, Steve. You will be missed in my household and you will be remembered.

I'm sorry for your loss Terri, Bindi, and Bob. I do not know what to say, except I am sorry. Please carry on Steve's life's work when you are up to it. He would want it that way.

R.I.P. Steve Irwin, the Crocodile Hunter

:cry:

[DemExpat]

96. I shed tears for few celebrities, but I am for Steve.......

I have loved his enthusiasm and deep caring for even the less cuddly animals and the natural world as a whole.

He will be missed!

:cry:

DemEx

[urbuddha]

98. He always called me " a good bloke."

I knew Steve and his family. He was down to earth , loved a good joke and of course his great sense of adventure. He did so many positive things while he was here. I only hope I can do as many.
I'm still in shock and fill sick to my stomach over this.
He will be missed.

[SlavesandBulldozers]

156. im sorry about your loss.

he lived an amazing life.

[Mad_Dem_X]

174. My condolences

He seemed like a terrific guy.

[merwin]

101. RIP Steve...

:cry: :cry:

[RamboLiberal]

103. Some info from surfing around

John Stainton, good friend and producer of Steve Irwin's Film Company, Best Picture, held a press conference earlier today outlining the circumstances of Steve's untimely death and the events that surrounded it.

A very emotional Mr. Stainton said that he had lost a very dear and close friend.

"Today the world has lost a great wildlife icon, a passionate conservationist and one of the proudest Dad's on the planet. He died doing what he loved best, he left this world in a happy and peaceful state of mind, he would've said 'crocs rule'," he said.

Steve Irwin and his team had been filming a new documentary, titled Ocean's Deadliest, at Batt Reef off the coast of the resort town of Port Douglas, when the accident occurred.

"Steve decided to shoot a couple of segments for a new TV show that he's doing with his daughter Bindi and, with the cameramen, went out on to the reef at Batt Reef to do a little segment on stingrays. He came over the top of the stingray... and the stingray's barb went up and went into his chest and put a hole into his heart."

http://www.abc.net.au/farnorth/stories/s1732635.htm?backyard

THE fatal stingray attack on Steve Irwin may have occurred because the animal was startled or frightened, an expert said today.

Victoria Brims, a marine life expert from Oceanworld in Sydney, said the stingray that killed Irwin was most likely provoked.

"I am aware he was filming a documentary and his documentaries are usually very hands on. I can only assume that he had some kind of hands on or close contact with the animal who like us when we get afraid defended itself," Ms Brims said.

Brims also said that for a sting to result in death the person involved had to be stung close to the heart and also have a reaction to the sting.

"For the most part people get stung on the foot when they accidentally tread on a ray and this can be no worse than a bacterial infection," Ms Brims said.

http://www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,20350156-1702,00.html

Deputy Prime Minister Mark Vaile says Australians will be saddened and shocked by Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin's death in a marine accident.

The 44-year-old was killed by a stingray barb which pierced his chest while he was shooting a documentary on the Great Barrier Reef.

Mr Vaile, who presented Mr Irwin with an Australian export award in 2004 for his Australia Zoo, said the Queenslander had made an amazing contribution to conservation and business.

"I was a tremendous fan of Steve Irwin because of his larger-than-life personality and his ability to highlight wildlife conservation in a way that people from all walks of life could identify with," the Nationals leader said in a statement.

http://www.smh.com.au/news/National/Politicians-pay-tribute-to-Steve-Irwin/2006/09/04/1157222059581.html

SHOCKED members of the public have begun laying flowers in memory of Steve Irwin at his family's animal park, Australia Zoo, north of Brisbane.

Tourists joined locals to pay tribute by leaving bouquets of flowers at the front entrance of the zoo at Beerwah.

Rod Cameron, of Brisbane, said he rushed to the zoo as soon as he heard the tragic news.

"It's very sad and we are very upset. Australia just lost a bloody good bloke," he said.

"We grew up in Brisbane, followed his career. We just thought he was a good guy for what he did for Australia.

http://www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,20350397-2,00.html

STEVE Irwin's death has left his devoted American fans shocked and in tears.

The khaki-clad Australian nature showman was one of the most recognisable faces on US television, with his shows, The Crocodile Hunter and Croc Files, aired up to seven times a day.

Americans lapped up his colourful Australianisms, with "crikey", thanks to Irwin, becoming part of America's everyday vocabulary.

The news of his death broke on America's cable TV network CNN and a few hours later it was among the top stories on America's 11pm news bulletins on the main commercial TV networks, NBC, CBS and ABC.

A website run by the American TV network that airs Irwin's shows, Animal Planet, became a place where the Crocodile Hunter's fans could pay their condolences.

http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,20867,20350646-29277,00.html

[Blue_Tires]

104. damn

we will never see another one like him....i'm just grateful for the time he was here with us

[farmboxer]

105. I will be depressed for a very long time...........

this is such sad news.

[phrenzy]

108. Grizzly Man II - Sad But Inevitable

I'm sorry but how is this a 'freak accident'. That's like saying Dale Ernhardt's death was a 'freak accident' - even though he insisted on driving without the proper protective gear. To get killed while filming a documentary where he was no doubt tempting the 'sea's deadliest' creatures is one of those very sad, but inevitable things exactly like the 'Grizzly Man'. In fact, I'd go as far to say that Timothy Treadwell was less in it for the glory and more in it for his legitimate (but twisted) 'love' for Bears. Irwin was very entertaining, but had too much of that 'extreme sportsman' in him where, even if THIS stingray didn't kill him he would have just kept pushing the envelope with dangerous animals until one did.

As bad as this was, Treadwell's death was still MUCH worse. To see his girlfriend get torn apart (while trying to save him) before he was no doubt slowly eaten alive makes getting a instant death blow to the heart from a ray seem downright peaceful

[Tellurian]

130. Death from a Ray is very rare-

Just Google and read for yourself.

People usually just don't up and die after an attack.
The common attacks from Rays are to the extremities (arms or legs)
And for the record, Rays are NOT the deadliest sea creatures.

The word from avid shallow water fisherman, those who have
had this unforgettable experience, consider wearing protective
leg gear. The leg gear, made from material similar to a bullet
proof vest,was developed by a fisherman after stumbling back wards over one
and getting stabbed in the ankle.

Generally, a Ray will chose the escape route as his best defense.
However, some will take an aggressive approach and stick you with
their poison loaded spiny tail. The poison, injected at the wound
site, can leave the victim writhing in pain with the barbs actually
left inside the wound. The victim must seek surgical removal to be
sure all remnants of the barb have been removed and the wound sterilized
to assure a full recovery. Even so, Steve Irwin's circumstance was bizarre
by all accounts.

I've heard conflicting stories recounting the actual attack.
According to one..the Ray was between Steve and his camera man. The Ray might
have felt trapped, turned, lifted his tail over his back and punctured Steve
in the chest...which is a very unusual place for them to strike. Steve was in
the wrong place at the wrong time. Nevertheless, the man was an out and out
animal lover. He gave so much to the world, of himself, his family and to his country.
He will be sorely missed by the animals he loved so much and every living breathing
human being he educated, entertained and touched by his unique, exuberant personality.

God Speed to you, Steve. RIP

[shrike]

220. OT, But I met Treadwell

on the katmai. A very nice, gentle man. He made an impression of us; we were shocked and saddened to hear of his death.

However, I agree with you 100 percent of extreme risks and extreme behavior. Plenty of people engage in them, and although I pass judgement on no one, people who take these kinds of chances sometimes run out of luck.

Although public reaction to their passing vary a great deal: Treadwell was basically ridiculed and Earnhart practically sanctified. I remember a guy, a married father of two, who did a really stupid and extreme form of snowboarding down a local mountain. He died doing it, of course, and they renamed the mountain after him to "honor" him.

[krispos42]

110. CNN Online has it now

http://www.cnn.com/2006/WORLD/asiapcf/09/04/australia.irwin/index.html

[Raine]

111. Very Sad News

a loss to his family and a loss to the environmental world. :cry:

R-I-P Steve

[Neoma]

112. Here's a quote:

I have no fear of losing my life - if I have to save a koala or a crocodile or a kangaroo or a snake, mate, I will save it.
-Steve Irwin

[Norton]

117. As far as I'm concerned...

anyone who turns that many people's attention to the glory of wildlife is an out and out Saint.

This is a dark, sad day for the animal kingdom. Love you Steve.

[L A Woman]

148. classic example of somone dying doing what they loved

most of us do what pays the rent and then we die. Good for him. It sure happened too soon, though. Great conservationists are hard to find. RIP.

[krispos42]

114. CNN finally mentions it on TV

On "American Morning", right after the Larry King rerun. About time; I watched CNN Headline News for about 45 minutes and didn't here word one about it!

[Azathoth]

115. Rest in peace, Steve. You will certainly be missed.

:cry:

[lanlady]

123. oh noooooooooo

He was my daughter's hero. He inspired her to visit Australia this summer. This is so sad. The world is much worse off without Steve Irwin in it.

[YankeyMCC]

124. I'm dreading having to tell my son when he wakes up

He loves that show, in fact he just asked me the other day about him because we happen to have not caught the show in a while.

I'll miss him too. Some of the things he did (getting so close to the animals etc...) seemed crazy to me but the wonder and respect he brought to the screen of the natural world was truly enjoyable.

[JesterCS]

125. You'll be missed Steve-O

Man, i loved watching his shows.. he had some much energy, so much vibrance for life. He did indeed seem immortal.

[0007]

126. The world will indeed suffer the loss. RIP

[AussieDave]

128. The post-mortem is being conducted tonight

it's now just after 10pm here but the news reports say the sting-ray's barb pierced his heart but he also got a dose of its venom - so he was a goner either way.


R.I.P.

[VolcanoJen]

154. My heart goes out not only to Irwin's family, but to Australia as well.

From what I hear, even though he was wildly popular here, it is hard for us Yanks to imagine how beloved and popular he was in Australia.

R.I.P., Steve Irwin.

:-(

[qanda]

129. My son cried when I told him this morning

He said that Steve is the reason he catches bugs and maintains his ecosystem. RIP Steve and thanks for being such a wonderful example to my children.

[Beausoir]

133. My son cried, too. Steve's been a welcome visitor in our home for years.

[Vogon_Glory]

131. I'm Sad. Steve Irwin Was A Good 'Un

I'm saddened at the passing of Steve Irwin. He was a good 'un. Whether his passion and enthusiasm for animals was always genuine or only very occasionally contrived, Steve Irwin's interest in the natural world alway showed. He always showed a sense of wonder and gee-whiz at the creatures he pursued on his programs.

I feel my world has been diminished and jaded with his passing.

My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

:cry:

[mcscajun]

134. Bummer, man. I always liked the guy. Even if (in fact especially because)

He was CRAZY!

He did crazy things in the safest possible way, but stuff that most of us would never do.

He died doing what he loved, but damn! Gone too soon, and leaving behind a loving family. :(
Damn, he should have stayed out of the ocean and stuck to crocs.

:cry:

[telleophone]

136. It's truly

Sad..but he shouldn't have kept messing with wild animals like that. My PETA friends are sad that they've lost someone that cared for animals like he did, but then some of them are angry that he always messed with them as well. One friend of mine said it served him right for messing with nature.

I'm just sad about it...his wife and kids..

Sad, Sad, Sad.

[eShirl]

138. Animal Planet aired his show here in the US

People are expressing their condolences in the Crocodile Hunter Forums on their website.

http://community.discovery.com/eve/forums/a/cfrm/f/1401993295

(registration required)

[rocktivity]

139. Crikey.

All condolances to his friends and family--human and otherwise.

:(
rocknation

[Strathos]

140. I just wish he'd thought more about family than animals

He could still be doing good work that was less dangerous. To me, it's selfish when you have children to do anything that puts you in danger almost every day of your life.

I loved watching him and he'll be missed, but I can't help feeling SO sorry for his children and his wife.

RIP Steve Irwin.

[Subdivisions]

144. There are thousands of jobs that put one in danger...

I am a construction worker that sometimes finds myself several hundred feet in the air on the side of a building. Am I supposed to quit being a construction worker because of the hundreds of different ways I could get killed on a construction site? Hell, one day while I was working on the newest terminal at DFW airport, I saw a gigantic crane fall across the roof of the south concourse as it was being built. Luckily, no one was injured. But that's only because they ran like hell and were able to get out of the way. But if they hadn't, they would surely have been killed.

There are LOTS of jobs where danger is a daily fixture. You can't just NOT go to work just because you now have a family. In fact, having a family makes it even more necessary to go to work, danger notwithstanding.

[LostinVA]

145. His wife and daughter also loved the animals and the work

[CrispyQ]

147. So dangerous work should be performed by childless people only?

:eyes:

His wife knew the dangers of his job. If I recall, that's how they got together. She was involved in the same type of work & assisted him. I'm glad Steve disagreed with you. His work & message were vital.

Rest in peace Steve.

[LostinVA]

180. She did -- she worked with cougar rehab, I believe

In the Pacific NW.

[LittleClarkie]

163. But his dad did it, and his dad, and so on and so on

We'll see what the family does now.

[LostinVA]

181. And his daughter already does it...

[Strathos]

209. I'm just sayin' he didn't have to quit doing it

but being more careful isn't that hard to do. To the construction worker, I'm sure you don't risk your life even further by being reckless. I loved watching Steve Irwin and I've been depressed all day, but he took it too far and while it's horrible that he died leaving those children to never really know their father, I don't think anyone was surprised. It's like when Dale Earnhart died, yeah, it was a tragedy, but come one, driving 300 miles an hour, somethin' is gonna happen.

That's all I was saying.

Danger sometimes can't be avoided, to go looking further for it, can.

[LostinVA]

218. He wasn't doing anything "dangerous" when he died

And, what he did every day was no more dangerous than most zoo keepers and wildlife biologists experience.

[AlCzervik]

141. wow that is so sad!! I really am dreading telling my kid.

[a la izquierda]

142. what a shame for him and his family.

his poor children are so young. i remember the episode where his dog died. his reaction broke my heart.

[AngryAmish]

143. CRIKEY!

[CabalPowered]

149. A good man gone too soon

He was a wonderful teacher, parent and citizen of the world. RIP Steve.

[Catchawave]

150. The Crocs lost their strongest advocate

he will be missed.

[xchrom]

151. very sad indeed.

[Joey Liberal]

152. He was a champion of wildlife and the environment

He was a little crazy, but what a voice for the environment he was.

[Blue Diadem]

153. RIP Steve. My condolences to his family and all who loved him.

:cry:

[acmavm]

157. My oldest daughter (35) called at the crack of dawn to tell me about the

poor guy (I already knew) and my son (13) just thought he was delivering a big new bulletin. Both were very affected by the news.

His fans were multitudinous and of all age groups.

Sure wish this hadn't happened.

NOTE: I always thought it would happen to Jim of Wild Kingdom. Old Marlin always sent him in to do the anaconda wrestling or whatever.

[SlavesandBulldozers]

158. RIP Steve Irwin.

You made your mark, and you will be sorely missed.

[LostinVA]

159. The SO is making me upset

She said that maybe Steve is now with Mary, Bindi, Harriett, Sue, and all the other animals he loved... and his Mum....

[TransitJohn]

165. Well

that's what you get for molesting animals for a living.

**on edit...not in a sexual sense at all**

[WatchWhatISay]

167. Ridiculous

[stepnw1f]

169. Now That Was Not Necessary at All

People die and so what do people say in reaction to the news? They make a snarky remark. Man.... that really is messed up.

[LostinVA]

182. If he molested animals, I would agree

Since he didn't, I don't.

[TransitJohn]

183. You never found yourself

watching him and thinking, "leave those animals alone?"...I always did...but what do I know about nature? Sheez..nothing I guess....I'm off to go tear apart an anthill to look at ants.

[LostinVA]

186. Sometimes I didn't agree with certain approaches he took

But I never believed he molested animals.

[TransitJohn]

187. fine.

Just me.

[LostinVA]

188. You're the one picking a fight in your last post to me

Not me.

[Orrin_73]

170. So long mate, we will miss you

[Mad_Dem_X]

171. May he rest in peace

He took a lot of risks, but he did a lot of good. He will be missed.

My prayers go out to his wife and children. :cry:

[sandrakae]

173. Here is a picture of a stingray.

I will sorely miss him. I loved his shows.

[YOY]

175. So sad that a man who truly loved animals and worked to preserve

their environs has dies. His risk taking methods was part of the phenomenon that were the 'Croc Hunter' and a great creator of publicity.

He will be sorely missed.

and completely forgiven for that movie he made...

[Odin2005]

178. NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!

:cry:


Nature can be both wonderous and deadly. Every time a naturalist goes into the wild he/she tempts fate. Steve showed to the whole world that it is not just the cute, furry creatures that need protecting, it is ALL creatures, no matter how much we have come to dispise them because of our cultural prejudices. RIP Steve, you will be deeply missed.

[Up2Late]

185. "Crocodile Hunter" Irwin dies (Reuters)

(Not sure if anyone's posted this source yet)

"Crocodile Hunter" Irwin dies

Mon Sep 4, 2006 07:17 AM ET
By Paul Tait

SYDNEY (Reuters) - Steve Irwin, the quirky Australian naturalist who won worldwide acclaim as TV's khaki-clad "Crocodile Hunter," was killed by a stingray barb through the heart while filming a new documentary on Monday.

Irwin, 44, tangled with some of the world's most dangerous animals but he died in an extremely rare attack by a normally placid sea creature while he was diving on a reef off Port Douglas in northern Queensland.

"He came over the top of a stingray and the stingray's barb went up and went into his chest and put a hole into his heart," Irwin's shocked manager John Stainton told reporters in Cairns, south of Port Douglas.

A helicopter rushed paramedics to nearby Low Isles where Irwin was taken for treatment, but he was dead before they arrived, emergency officials said.

(more at link) <http://go.reuters.com/newsArticle.jhtml?type=topNews&storyID=13378374&src=rss/topNews>

[Placebo]

189. Stingrays never attack for offensive reasons.

And the triggering of their stinging is purely a defensive reflex action.

I read that he was hit with a 20cm barb which went through his chest and into his heart.



Stingray barbs can be driven with incredible force and are designed to go through almost everything.

So obviously the Croc Hunter made some sort of error when pursing the stingray.

Still sad though.

[brentspeak]

190. RIP, Steve

[GregW]

191. This hits really close to home...

Steve went to the same high school as me in Australia and we visited his father's reptile park many times (before all the fame). His wife is from Eugene, where I now live. My brother interviewed him last year for a magazine article he was writing.

We are flying back to Australia in a few weeks for vacation and had planned on visiting his zoo - it all seems so sad now.

RIP Steve - you went out on top doing something you loved - and will be sorely missed.

[allisonthegreat]

195. how sad..I just can't get over it...

I heard it on all night radio..horrible. yes i heard that the sting ray barb went right through his heart. well, at least he died doing what he loved...rip steve. you will be missed by millions!

[Mythsaje]

196. Death by misadventure...

I always enjoyed his show when I happened to catch it. He did so many amazing things and conveyed such a sense of wonder at the natural world that he will be missed by many.

RIP Steve...

[bonito]

197. Always full of life and discovery

And so kind and understanding of all life, I will miss him.

[InvisibleTouch]

198. Shocked and sad to hear this.

How sad, and what a freak accident! Too rare are the people who try to give reptiles a good name. Some may have disagreed with his approach, but in this day and age you have to have a little showmanship to get the public's attention - and Irwin always emphasized the beauty of the animals. Hopefully got a lot of viewers to see them with new eyes and new appreciation.

RIP.

:(

[judaspriestess]

200. He died doing what he loved!! RIP

he had a wonderful life, I am sorry his kids are losing their dad at such a young age.

[crossroads]

201. RIP Steve!

We will miss you! Prayers for his family... CR

[BrightKnight]

202. getting close

By getting close to wildlife he debunked a lot of irrational fears. This enabled a very large audience to appreciate the beauty of these creatures. He really loved animals and his passion was contagious.

RIP Steve Irmin

[Greylyn58]

205. This is just so unbelieveable

I almost can't believe it. This is just so sad!

Damn! :cry:

My thoughts go out to his wife Terri and his two children.

[AtomicKitten]

211. A tragic, premature death.

Steve's enthusiasm made him ripe for parody, but no one doubted his sincerity. His genuine concern for the environment and its effects on the creatures of the earth will be sorely missed. Condolences to his young family.

[Wise Doubter]

212. AUSTRALIAN VIDEO

eye-witness account news interview.

http://mp3.news.com.au/bcm/stainton.wmv

so long `ol mate.

[XemaSab]

213. I've been really depressed about it all day

He did so much for conservation and education. Such a tragic accident. :(

[diamidue]

214. As soon as I heard of this

I said that I bet he was born in the Chinese Year of the Tiger and it turns out that I was right. He was born in 1962.

The Tiger Man (b. 1950, 1962, 1974, etc.)

His psychological makeup
This man is an adventurer in every good sense of the word. Contemptuous of those who play it safe, he likes gambling with his life, rushing headlong into every conceivable undertaking, oblivious of dangers and flirting with death. He detests beaten tracks, abhors routine, and never does a thing in the same manner the second time. Should he fail in any of his enterprises, he would immediately stand up and make a fresh start with unshaken faith. He believes existence is a tremendous challenge, a fascinating venture, and means to live it to the full, even if he has to burn the candle at both ends. His zest for living is unequaled. His destiny is generally exceptional, stormy, full of upsets and reversals, and sometimes ends with sudden and violent death.

[killbotfactory]

215. ...

:(

[ozone_man]

219. He lived on the edge

and his luck finally ran out. I think he's the sort who would do it all over again and in the same way. He did so much to bring nature into people's lives in amazing and amusing ways. What an exhuberance! Even if overacted at times, but that was his trademark.

RIP Steve.

[President Kerry]

221. RIP Steve,

You've done a whole lot of good in this world and you will be sorely missed.

:cry: