Spearfisher Fatally Attacked by Shark Off Rottnest Island
A 38-year-old man was killed by a shark while spearfishing near Rottnest Island, marking Australia's first fatal shark attack of the year.
A 38-year-old man was fatally attacked by a shark while spearfishing near Rottnest Island, off Australia's southwest coast, on Saturday morning. The incident occurred around 10 a.m. at Horseshoe Reef, approximately one kilometre north of Rocky Bay. The man was bitten on the lower leg and, despite being transported to shore, could not be revived by paramedics.
Authorities reported that a five-metre white shark had been sighted in the area prior to the attack. The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has urged the public to exercise additional caution in the Horseshoe Reef and Marjorie Bay areas.
This marks Australia's first fatal shark attack since January, when a 12-year-old boy died after being mauled by a bull shark in Sydney Harbour. Rottnest Island's last fatal shark attack occurred in 2011.
DPIRD is collaborating with Western Australia Police to monitor the area, with patrol vessels deployed to ensure public safety.