A tragic shark attack claimed the life of a 38-year-old man near Rottnest Island, Australia, on Saturday morning. Authorities say the man was attacked by a large shark while swimming at Horseshoe Reef, marking the second fatal shark incident in the country this year.
Man Killed by Shark Near Rottnest Island
The attack occurred just before 10 a.m. at Horseshoe Reef, located about 19 miles west of Perth on Australia’s western coast.
According to St. John WA Ambulance, the man was brought back to shore by a vessel and met by paramedics, but tragically he never regained consciousness.
“A 38-year-old man was in the water at Horseshoe Reef when he was believed to have been bitten by a shark,” a spokesperson said.
Authorities confirmed the shark involved was reported to be a great white, one of the most dangerous species found in Australian waters.
Authorities Urge Caution
Perth’s Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development warned the public to take additional caution in the area following the attack.
Rescue teams and police were on the scene, with footage showing boats and emergency personnel responding to the incident.
Second Fatal Shark Attack in Australia This Year
This attack comes just months after a 12-year-old boy died in Sydney Harbor following a shark bite in January.
In the same two days in January, three other non-fatal shark attacks were reported along the New South Wales coast, highlighting ongoing risks in Australian waters.
Officials continue to monitor and respond to shark activity along popular beaches and reefs.
