An Australian police officer has died after falling down a ravine while hiking near the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu in Peru. The officer, identified as Matt Paton, had joined the Victoria Police service in 2009 and was due to start a new role upon his return. According to accounts of the incident, the ground gave way beneath Paton as he was walking along a section of the trail. A witness described the moment: "It gave way and he slipped into the abyss along with it. Unfortunately, he fell down the ravine." Authorities will investigate the cause of the fall, and Paton's body is expected to be transferred to a nearby city. Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush said Paton had "served with distinction for 16 years" and was remembered for his "selflessness, amazing sense of humour, extreme kindness and inclusion of all." Paton's family said they were "shattered" by his death and that he had "always wanted to travel to Peru." They said: "Family was the most important thing to Matt. He was dedicated to his family including his wife of 31 years and their three children. He adored his family. And we adored him." The tragedy underscores the risks associated with hiking in the rugged terrain surrounding Machu Picchu, where steep paths and unstable ground have claimed lives before.