British expat tragically dies at his engagement party in Australia after falling backwards and cutting his neck

A British expat in Australia, has died following a freak accident in which he fell and cut a vital artery in his neck.

Liam Trimmer, 29, had been celebrating at his own engagement party in Western Australia when he fell backwards, cutting a carotid artery – a major blood vessel which carries blood to the brain.

Guests at the party had attempted to save his life, but he died before paramedics arrived, according to authorities.

The tragic death of Trimmer, who was a police officer, prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues in the service.

Western Australia Police Commissioner Col Blanch said Trimmer was a “capable young man with his whole life ahead of him”, and said his death marked a “really tough time for WA Police”.

Commissioner Blanch continued: “Everything was done to try and save him, but it wasn’t to be and I know everyone that was involved is really, really hurting at the moment.

“I think they wish they could just wake up from this nightmare.”

Other members of the police said Trimmer was an “extraordinary officer” who “loved helping his community”.

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The 29-year-old had emigrated to Australia 11 years ago to become a police officer, graduating from academy training in 2017.

When he graduated, Trimmer moved to the outback mining town of Kalgoorlie, around 600km (370 miles) east of Western Australian capital Perth, before working his way through the ranks to become a senior constable in the police’s tactical response and gang crime units.

He had appeared on BBC show Wanted Down Under, about British families considering moving to Australia, where he gave advice to a UK teenager on what to expect if her family relocated.

Western Australia Police told Sky News: “Our thoughts and deepest condolences are extended to his family and colleagues.

“Our Health, Welfare and Safety Division will provide support to those impacted by this tragedy.”

The Western Australian Police Union said they were “deeply saddened by the passing of a valued member of the blue family”.

The union added: “The WA Police Union sends heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the fallen officer during this difficult period.”

The UK Foreign Office said its employees in Perth were in touch with local authorities, speaking to the BBC.