A 15-year-old boy who died after the boat he was in capsized in the ocean near Bunbury has been remembered by family as \u201ca beautiful and fascinating young man\u201d.<\/p>\n
Joseph French was on a boating trip with family in waters off Turkey Point when the boat was hit by a wave, causing it to upturn about 1pm on October 3.<\/p>\n
He was one of four people onboard.<\/p>\n
He was pulled from the water in a critical condition and taken to Bunbury regional hospital, where he died.<\/p>\n
Bunbury police said three other adults on board, one man and two women, were uninjured. Everyone was wearing a life jacket, according to police.<\/p>\n
The teenager has been revealed as the son of a St John WA paramedic.<\/p>\n
In a moving tribute given to The West Australian, the French family said they could \u201chardly comprehend\u201d the community\u2019s support following his death.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe would like to thank you all from our hearts,\u201d they said.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur family have truly felt embraced by the community in which we live.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe have been upheld by your prayers, and your support over the last week we can hardly comprehend.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are now making plans to remember and celebrate Joseph\u2019s time with us \u2014 a beautiful and fascinating young man created by God himself.<\/p>\n
\u201cLove always, the French family.\u201d<\/p>\n
A St John WA spokeswoman said the organisation was \u201cdeeply saddened by the tragic passing of the son of one of our paramedics\u201d.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with our colleague and their family during this unimaginably difficult time.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe ask that their privacy be respected as they grieve their loss.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe St John WA community stands together in support, offering care and compassion to the family, friends, and colleagues affected by this tragedy.\u201d<\/p>\n
WA Police are investigating the incident, with a report into his death being prepared for the coroner.<\/p>\n