A 38-year-old man has died after being attacked by a shark while spearfishing off Rottnest Island on Saturday morning. The incident occurred around 10am at Horseshoe Reef, north of Marjorie Bay, on the western end of the island.
Police Sergeant Michael Wear said the victim was on the water's surface, about 20 metres from his boat, when he was bitten on the lower legs. His three friends, who were with him on a day trip from Perth's northern suburbs, retrieved his body and performed CPR on the way back to Geordie Bay jetty.
Despite efforts by paramedics and police, the man could not be revived. The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development reported that the shark was approximately 4 metres long. Authorities have urged caution in the area, with a patrol vessel monitoring the waters.
Witness Jarrad Young, visiting for a wedding, described the scene as confronting. WA Premier Roger Cook expressed condolences, calling the attack deeply distressing. The area around Horseshoe Reef, known for diving and fishing, remains under watch as the community mourns.
