Sydney Beaches Closed After Rare Fatal Shark Attack Kills Surfer
Sydney Beaches Closed After Rare Fatal Shark Attack Kills Surfer
A 57-year-old surfer was tragically killed in a suspected large shark attack off Sydney’s northern beaches on Saturday, prompting immediate closure of Long Reef and Dee Why beaches. The incident, described by authorities as a rare fatal attack, occurred as the man was surfing with friends in the Pacific waters.
New South Wales police superintendent John Ducan reported that the experienced surfer, a husband and father, lost “a number of limbs” after he and his board disappeared underwater. His body was later recovered floating in the surf by other surfers, but attempts to resuscitate him were unsuccessful due to significant blood loss.
Witnesses reported seeing a large ocean predator, leading police to believe a substantial shark was responsible. Government experts are now examining the surfboard remains and the victim’s body to identify the species of shark involved. Following the attack, nearby beaches have been closed for at least 24 hours, with drones and surf lifesavers actively patrolling the area for further shark activity.
Fatal shark attacks are uncommon, with only seven recorded worldwide in 2024. This marks the first deadly shark attack in Sydney since 2022 and underscores the rarity of such an event in the region.
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