Man tragically dies after being buried alive when sand pit fell in on top of him

An Australian man who was 'buried alive' after falling head first into a pit has tragically died.

Josh Taylor's life support was turned off on Thursday (7 December) four days after the incident had occurred, his family confirmed in a statement.

The 25-year-old had been at Bribie Island in Queensland, Australia with friends and family when he fell into a hole which was to be used to roast a pig.

According to witnesses at the scene, they saw him standing up from his chair before accidentally losing his footing.

He then tripped head first into the pit and was buried 1.5 metres deep as the sand caved in on him, 7News reports.

"I realised someone was head first in a hole and I was just digging, digging, digging," witness Nathan explained to news.com.au.

"I first went up to the hole, I couldn't even see his foot. That's how deep it was."

Over 15 people immediately joined in to help get Taylor out of the pit.

7 News

"All of his family were screaming at us, telling us to help, telling us to get rope so we could pull him out. It was pretty gruesome." Nathan said.

He added that the group had attempted to use the rope to rescue him but Taylor 'didn't budge'.

Eventually, Taylor was recovered from the pit, with family members and emergency services performing CPR on him before being rushed to Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane, remaining in critical condition for days.

However, his injuries were too severe for him to overcome and his family made the decision to turn off his life support.

They said in a statement: "He fought as hard as he could and is the most courageous person we will ever know.

“He was the best son, brother, boyfriend and mate we could all have wished for. We love you Josh and will miss you every minute of every day.

“Goodbye mate, until we see each other again.”

7 News

Queensland Police are currently investigating the incident after his death. According to a police spokesperson, officers 'are appealing to those people, as well as anyone who may have dash-camera footage from the northern end of Bribie Island on Saturday to come forward'.

A GoFundMe account has also been set up on behalf of Taylor's friends on behalf of his family.

"We come to you today with heavy hearts and ask for support for the Taylor family," the message read.

"The unimaginable has happened to their beloved son, Josh, a vibrant and adventurous soul who has brought so much joy to those around him.

"Recently, Josh experienced a tragic accident on Bribie Island that has left him in critical condition.

"His family is now facing an incredibly challenging journey ahead."

You can donate to the GoFundMe here.