12-Year-Old Boy Dies After Shark Attack in Sydney Harbour

A 12-year-old boy has died in hospital after being bitten by a shark in Sydney Harbour, his family confirmed on Saturday. The boy, identified as Nico Antic, was attacked on Sunday afternoon while jumping off rocks with friends in Vaucluse, approximately 9 kilometers from Sydney's central business district. His parents, Lorena and Juan, described him as a "happy, friendly, and sporty young boy with the most kind and generous spirit."

The incident occurred amid increased shark activity along Australia's southeastern coast. In the 48 hours following Nico's attack, three additional shark encounters were reported in New South Wales. On Monday, an 11-year-old boy's surfboard was bitten at Dee Why Beach, and a 27-year-old man was critically injured by a shark at North Steyne Beach. On Tuesday, a 39-year-old surfer sustained minor injuries after a shark bit his surfboard at Point Plomer.

Authorities have linked the surge in shark activity to recent heavy rainfall, which has led to murky water conditions that may attract sharks closer to shore. In response, several beaches, including those in Sydney, were temporarily closed, and officials have urged swimmers and surfers to exercise caution.

Australia averages 20 shark attacks annually, with fewer than three resulting in fatalities, according to conservation group data.