AN EXPERIENCED surfer has been dismembered by a “large shark” in a deadly beach attack.
The 57-year-old dad was pulled out of the water alive but missing “a number of limbs” and died shortly after, according to Australian police.
APPeople gather at the site of a fatal shark attack in Sydney, Australia[/caption]
APPolice work at the site of the deadly shark attack[/caption]
ReutersThe dad had been out on the water at Long Reef Beach for around 30 minutes with friends before he was attacked[/caption]
He had been out on the water at northern Sydney’s adjoining Long Reef and Dee Why beaches for around 30 minutes with friends at around 10am (12am UK time) this morning.
New South Wales police described the victim as an “experienced surfer” who leaves behind a wife and young daughter.
The victim was suddenly attacked about 328ft from the shore as both him and his surfboard disappeared from sight.
New South Wales police inspector Stuart Thomson said: “It would appear that a large shark has attacked him and as a result of that he lost a number of limbs.
“His friends managed to make it back to the beach safely, and a short time later his body was found floating in the surf.
“Unfortunately by that time we understand he’d lost probably a lot of blood and resuscitation was not possible.
“We understand he leaves behind a wife and a young daughter – with tomorrow being Father’s Day, it’s particularly tragic.”
Locals who witnessed the horror attack believe it could have been a great white.
It looked like the shark had targeted the man’s lower body from his injuries, a local added.
Two sections of a surfboard were also recovered and taken for examination, police said.
Investigators are now working to identify the species of shark involved with lifeguards sent out on jet skis to patrol the water.
Rod McGibbon, a duty officer from Surf Life Saving (SLS), says he expects several nearby beaches to remain closed for between 24 and 72 hours.
SLS chief executive Steven Pearce announced: “For now, please remain clear of the water at beaches in the vicinity and follow the direction of lifeguards and lifesavers.
“Our deepest condolences go to the family of the man involved in this terrible tragedy.”
Local resident Bill Sukala said the attack is certain to leave the surfing community “spooked” for some time.
He told ABC News: I think it’s going to send shock waves through the community, I think everyone is going to be nervous for a while.”
The attack is said to be the first of the year in New South Wales.
Sydney is also known to be relatively safe from sharks with this marking just the second death in 60 years.
In 2022, Brit diving instructor Simon Nellist was killed at Little Bay, in Sydney’s east in a suspected great white attack.
Nellist, who served two tours in Afghanistan, died after he was attacked by a 15ft beast while he was training for a charity ocean swim.
GettyLocals who witnessed the horror attack believe it could have been a great white (stock)[/caption]
FacebookIt is the first fatal shark attack in the region since Brit diving instructor Simon Nellist was killed in 2022[/caption] Published: [#item_custom_pubDate]
