A popular natural landmark in Malta became the scene of a deadly accident after the famous "Kissing Elephants" rock formation collapsed, killing a jet skier and seriously injuring another person.
According to the New York Post, authorities said the collapse happened around 7 p.m. Saturday as a 26-year-old man from China was riding a jet ski beneath the natural arch.
The falling rocks trapped him underwater, and he later died at the scene, according to the Times of Malta.
A 27-year-old woman who was with him suffered serious injuries and was taken to a hospital for treatment.
The collapse reportedly occurred moments after a 32-year-old American tourist jumped from the rock formation into the water.
Officials have not publicly indicated whether the dive contributed to the collapse, and authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Emergency crews launched a large-scale recovery effort after the rocks fell into the water. A crane mounted on a barge was brought in to remove heavy debris while divers searched beneath the surface for the missing jet skier.
Investigators also relied on surveillance footage from the nearby floating beach club Noma Island to determine what had happened and confirm how many people were involved in the incident, according to the Times of Malta.
Authorities have not publicly released the identities of the victims or the American tourist.
The "Kissing Elephants" rock formation has long been one of Malta's best-known coastal attractions, drawing visitors who come to admire its distinctive shape and scenic views.
The landmark has been a popular destination for sightseeing and recreational activities for many years.
Following the collapse, Outdoor Explorers Malta, a local tour company, expressed sorrow over the tragedy in a statement shared on Facebook.
“It is with deep sadness that we must report that one person has lost their life in this incident,” the organization wrote. “We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of the victim.”
Officials have not announced whether the area surrounding the collapsed formation will remain open to visitors as investigators examine the site.
The incident marks a tragic end to what began as a typical summer evening at one of Malta's most recognizable natural attractions, leaving one person dead, another hospitalized, and investigators working to determine exactly what caused the collapse.