Woman who died in cruise ship fall likely 'making dramatic gesture' to alarm boyfriend: coroner.

By ABC

A NSW coroner has found that a woman who fell off the side of a cruise ship was most likely “making a dramatic gesture” to get the attention of her boyfriend, who tried to save her.

Kristen Schroder, 26, and Paul Rossington, 30, were on board the Carnival Spirit off the New South Wales coast near Forster in May 2013 when Ms Schroder slipped overboard and Mr Rossington jumped after her.

No-one knew the couple was missing until the next morning, when the Carnival Spirit arrived at Circular Quay.

Handing down his findings today, NSW deputy coroner Hugh Dillon said the couple may have died from their injuries, or within a few hours of being in the water.

The inquest also heard the couple viewed the holiday as “make or break” for their tumultuous relationship.

“Why Kristen stepped over the railing is not known,” Mr Dillon said.

“The most likely explanation is that she, being unafraid of heights, was making a dramatic gesture to alarm and test Paul.”

As their families sat wiping away tears in the Glebe Coroners’ Court, Mr Dillon spoke of the deep love Mr Rossington, had for his girlfriend.

“This love was evidenced when, despite the speed of the ship, the height of the cabin and the almost certain prospect of drowning, Paul, seeing Kristen fall, jumped off the ship to assist her,” he said.

Police have previously recommended Mr Rossington, a paramedic, receive the Cross of Valour for his actions.

Related content: Man who jumped off cruise ship to save girlfriend is recommended for bravery award.

CCTV showed a figure, believed to be Ms Schroder, falling towards the water at 8:48pm and then a much brighter figure jump in a few moments later.

“I think [Ms Schroder] has slipped and fallen as she’s holding onto the rails,” Detective Sergeant Michael O’Keefe told the inquest earlier.

“She holds that rail for approximately four seconds then hits the railing on the third deck and topples and somersaults into the water.

“When [Mr Rossington] has seen her slip he’s jumped out of bed and when she’s fallen he’s gone straight over after her.

“That act of conspicuous courage should not go unnoticed.”

The deputy coroner today backed the recommendation.

Outside court, the paramedic’s parents, Richard and Christine Rossington, spoke of their pride.

“We’re very humbled that he’s recommended Paul for a bravery award, and Paul would be absolutely – being a very very quiet man – would not want all this publicity,” Ms Rossington said.

The coroner recommended Carnival Spirit consider introducing a verbal briefing on “man overboard” procedures for future passengers.

This article was originally published by ABC News. 

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