Br.Ant.Territory : Antarctic Tragedy Claims Life of British Scientist
Submitted by (Juanita Brock) 23.07.2003 (Article Archived on 24.09.2003)

A well liked and respected British Scientist has been killed by a Leopard Seal.

ANTARCTIC TRAGEDY CLAIMS LIFE OF BRITISH SCIENTIST

By J. Brock (FINN)

It was with the deepest sorrow that British Antarctic Survey announced the tragic death on Tuesday, 22 July 2003, of Kirsty Margot Brown, in a sudden attack by a Leopard Seal in a bay near Rothera Research Station.  Kirsty, 28. was with her dive partner while snorkeling in a bay adjacent to the Station when, without warning, the seal pulled her underwater and contact with her was lost.  A two-person shore party saw the incident and immediately launched a rescue boat.  She was pulled from the water but frantic attempts to revive her failed after an hour.

The Director of British Antarctic Survey, Professor Chris Rapley, CBE, said "This is tragic and shocking.  My heart goes out to Kirsty's family and her friends.  Kirsty was a vibrant and dynamic individual, committed to her science and with a brilliant career ahead of her.  The Rothera team reacted in a highly efficient and professional way, of which we and they can be proud.  They are, however, shaken by the loss and need our support."

Leopard Seals are naturally inquisitive around humans, however, are not known to attack humans unless provoked.  British Antarctic Survey have been carrying out research and diving for the past 30 years.