Watch: Footage Shows Comino Rock Arch Before Collapse That Killed Chinese Tourist

A video sent to Lovin Malta shows the natural rock arch off Comino just before it collapsed on Saturday evening in a tragedy that claimed the life of a 26-year-old Chinese tourist.

The footage, which is not related to the incident itself, was filmed on a different occasion by a jet ski rider who says he frequently passes beneath the arch. It captures the now-collapsed formation from underneath, offering a glimpse of the popular route used by jet skis and kayakers before the fatal rockfall.

Police confirmed on Sunday that the victim was a 26-year-old Chinese man who was riding a jet ski beneath the arch when it suddenly gave way at around 7pm.

A 27-year-old Chinese woman, who was travelling with him on the jet ski, suffered grievous injuries and was taken to Gozo General Hospital. Her injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

Authorities also said a 32-year-old American tourist had jumped from the natural arch moments before it collapsed. He was rescued by a passing private boat and suffered minor injuries, not requiring hospital treatment.

Divers from the Armed Forces of Malta later located the Chinese tourist trapped beneath heavy rocks underwater.

Recovery efforts resumed on Sunday after attempts to free the body using flotation airbags proved unsuccessful. Civil Protection Department officials said heavy lifting equipment will be required to remove the large boulders before the victim can be recovered.

Magistrate Monica Vella is leading an inquiry into the incident as investigations continue.

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Dylan Attard

Dylan Attard is a Social Media Executive at Lovin Malta and a proud Gozitan with a passion for digital media, content creation, and social trends. Outside of work, you’ll usually find him at the gym, watching series or doomscrolling.