Australian diplomat in New York killed in tragic accident

An Australian diplomat has fallen to his death in New York in a tragic accident after a night drinking with friends.

Julian Simpson, 30, plunged several storeys to his death in Manhattan shortly after 1.30am.

He was said to be sitting on a balcony when he slipped and fell.

Mr Simpson and the group he was with had apparently returned from dinner and drinks to enjoy the views of the Empire State Building.

The iconic Manhattan skyscraper was lit up in rainbow colours following Australia’s “yes” vote to same-sex marriage.