A major search operation is underway near Port MacDonnell, South Australia, after a 36-year-old woman and a toddler were found dead in the ocean, while police continue searching for a second child whose whereabouts remain unknown. Emergency services were called to the coastline near Cape Northumberland at approximately 11:15 a.m. on Monday, July 27, 2026, after a vehicle was found with its engine running. Police later located the bodies of an adult woman and a young child in the water.
Search Continues for Missing Baby
Police have expressed grave concerns for the safety of a baby under 12 months old who remains missing.
Authorities have not confirmed exactly how the woman and the two children came to be in the water. Investigators are working to establish the family’s movements before the vehicle was found near the coastline.
The search was suspended overnight because of conditions and is expected to resume as authorities continue examining the surrounding coastline and waters.
Woman and Toddler Recovered From Ocean
The woman has been identified by police as a 36-year-old from Compton, while the toddler was her child.
Local fishermen assisted emergency crews in recovering the bodies from the water.
Police, South Australia State Emergency Service crews, drones, aircraft, and other emergency resources have been involved in the search and recovery operation.
Investigation Underway
Detectives from the Major Crime Investigation Branch and specialist officers from the Forensic Response Section are investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
A report will be prepared for the coroner.
Authorities are asking anyone who may have seen a white Isuzu MU-X in the area or captured relevant dashcam footage to contact police.
Port MacDonnell Community Grieves
The incident has deeply affected the South East community, including residents of Compton and the wider Mount Gambier region.
Port MacDonnell is a popular coastal community on South Australia’s Limestone Coast, and the emergency response has drawn significant attention as authorities continue searching for the missing baby.
The investigation and search operation remain ongoing, with police expected to provide further information as the circumstances become clearer.
Disclaimer: This article is based on preliminary information available at the time of publication. Details concerning the missing child, the deaths, the search operation, and the police investigation may change as authorities release additional verified information.