Overview
- Steven Mattaboni, 38, was fatally attacked by an estimated four‑metre shark while spearfishing off Rottnest Island on May 16 and hundreds attended a memorial at Optus Stadium.
- Daniel Turpin, 35, was killed by an estimated 4.5‑metre shark while spearfishing near Michaelmas Island and paramedics were unable to save him.
- Turpin’s father and a 14‑year‑old nephew raced him back to shore with the teenager driving the boat about 13km, actions that Albany’s mayor has publicly praised and said police will manage for any bravery recognition.
- Emergency responders attempted resuscitation in both incidents and local agencies have stepped up beach patrols and issued public warnings after multiple shark sightings.
- The back-to-back deaths have prompted community mourning, fundraising and renewed debate about spearfishing safety and coastal monitoring as authorities assess links to increased shark activity.