Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Spearfisher Killed in Suspected Great White Attack off Rottnest Island, Western Australia

Officials urge extra caution near Rottnest Island following a reported sighting of a four‑metre great white.

Overview

  • The 38-year-old, who was spearfishing near a reef off Rottnest Island on Saturday, was pulled from the water by friends and died despite resuscitation attempts.
  • Authorities reported a great white shark about four metres long in the area and advised people to take extra care in nearby waters.
  • The attack happened at a reef popular with divers and spearfishers off Perth, and emergency crews reached the scene quickly.
  • Police said this was Western Australia’s first fatal shark attack in more than a year, and recent data show about 20 injury incidents and an average of 2.8 deaths per year nationwide.
  • Some outlets identified the victim by name and reported he leaves a wife and two young children.