A 35-year-old diver died after being bitten by a suspected 4.5m (14.8ft) shark near Michaelmas Island, southeast of Perth. The attack occurred at 11:25 local time while he was spearfishing with family; paramedics were unable to revive him after he was brought to shore. Police will prepare a coroner's report and the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is assisting; investigations are ongoing. The incident follows another fatal shark attack in Western Australia less than a month earlier.
35-Year-Old Diver Killed in Suspected 4.5m Shark Attack Near Michaelmas Island
[Reuters]
Local authorities say a 35-year-old male diver has died after being bitten by a suspected 4.5m (14.8ft) shark off the coast of Western Australia.
Police reported the man—whose name has not been released—was spearfishing with family near Michaelmas Island, southeast of Perth, when the attack occurred at 11:25 local time (03:25 GMT) on Saturday. He was taken by boat to shore where paramedics attempted resuscitation but were unable to revive him.
In a statement carried by local media, police said they will prepare a report for the coroner. The BBC has contacted local officials to confirm details of the incident. The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) said it is assisting police and local authorities and has urged residents to report any shark sightings.
The fatal bite comes less than a month after another tragic incident in Western Australia: 38-year-old Steven Mattaboni was reportedly killed by a 4m (13ft) shark at Horseshoe Reef, northwest of Rottnest Island. While shark encounters in Australian waters are more common than in many other regions, most attacks are non-fatal and authorities typically maintain protective measures at popular swimming and surfing locations.
Investigations into the circumstances of the latest attack are ongoing. Police and maritime authorities are reviewing the area and asking the public to stay clear of the immediate vicinity while searches and inquiries continue.
What Officials Say:
Police: A coroner's report will be prepared. DPIRD: Residents should report sightings to help authorities monitor activity.
The community response has been one of shock and sympathy for the diver's family. Authorities have not released the victim's name pending family notification.
Help us improve.
