Shark Attack Kills Man Near Tourist Island Off Western Australia Coast

Sydney-A 38-year-old man died after being bitten by a shark near Rottnest Island off the coast of Western Australia on Saturday, marking the country’s second fatal shark attack this year, police said.

The man, who has not yet been formally identified, was attacked on Saturday morning at Horseshoe Reef near Rottnest Island, about 31 km (19 miles) west of Perth, according to a statement from Western Australia Police.

Authorities said the victim was brought ashore following the incident but could not be revived. Police said a report would be prepared for the coroner.
State authorities urged swimmers and visitors to exercise caution in waters around Rottnest Island, a major tourist destination known for its beaches and marine life.

Footage aired by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation showed emergency responders at the scene, including police vessels, rescue personnel and a helicopter carrying a stretcher.

The fatality follows another deadly shark attack in January, when a boy was killed after being bitten in Sydney Harbour amid heightened concern over a series of shark incidents along Australia’s east coast.

Australia records around 20 shark attacks annually, most occurring along the country’s eastern and southeastern coastline, according to data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.