Estuary drowning tragedy: Married couple died while crabbing

A 13-year-old girl is now orphaned following the tragic drowning of her parents while fishing in WA.

Leslie Ballo, 49, and Jon Ballo, 50, a Filipino couple who had been in Perth for nine years, lost their lives while crabbing.

Their bodies were recovered by authorities from the water near the Herron Point boat ramp around midday on Thursday.

Concerns arose when the couple didn't show up for work on Thursday after their crabbing expedition on Wednesday.

Known for renewing their wedding vows just two weeks prior, the Ballos enjoyed fishing together as a regular bonding activity. Reports indicate that their vehicle was discovered at the Herron Point camping grounds.

A close friend of the family, Marisol Armada, has pledged to care for the couple’s daughter.

“I know how devoted they were to their daughter, and we will continue to love and support her,” Ms. Armada shared with Nine.

“They were truly a remarkable couple... We will always hold them dear in our hearts.”

Their church, which the Ballos attended, expressed deep sorrow at their tragic loss and recounted their urgent search efforts.

The Head Pastor of the New Life Filipino-Australian Community Church revealed that he had known the Ballos since their arrival in Perth.

“When they didn't arrive at work by 6 am on Thursday, we noticed brother Jon’s car at the carpark around 9.15 am,” he told The West Australian.

“By tracking Leslie’s phone ping, we located them. Even from a distance, as the rescue boat approached, I feared the worst.”

In a heartfelt tribute on Facebook, Ms. Ballo’s sister, Lei Ortega-Moises, expressed her grief and faith.