Kiwi’s fatal high-rise fall an accident

Police investigating the death of a New Zealand man who fell from a high-rise building on the Gold Coast say it was an accident.

Liam Kearns, of Christchurch, died when he reportedly fell from the 15th floor of an apartment block in Surfers Paradise early hours on Tuesday.

The 22-year-old is understood to have recently moved to Australia , according to the Gold Coast Bulletin.

Northcliffe Surf Club president Dave Shields told the Bulletin Kearns’ death was a “terrible tragedy”.

“Liam had only been with us a short time but was a nice young guy and a valued member of our team.”

Local police have said they are describing the death as an accident.

Officers investigating the case are also looking into whether Kearns may have been “mucking around” at the time of the incident.

A profile on Kearns on Trade Me Property shows the young man worked in real estate for some time. He describes it as a job that he loves.

“Meeting new faces and getting to know more of the public is the most enjoyable job,” he writes in the profile. “This industry is my passion and love. I strive to get the best results for my clients by going above and beyond.”

A brief biography describes him as a “bubbly and friendly personality and lots of energy”.

Kearns was born and grew up in Canterbury and attended Christchurch Boys’ High School.

Emergency services were called to the Breakers North Apartments building about 12.30am local time (3.30am NZT) after reports a person had fallen from a balcony. Kearns’ death will be referred to the Coroner.