- A man has died following a suspected shark attack at Long Reef Beach in Sydney, prompting widespread beach closures across the Northern Beaches.
- Emergency services responded to reports of a critically injured surfer on Saturday morning, but the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
- Authorities are working to identify the species involved, while the incident marks Sydney’s first fatal shark attack since 2022.
A peaceful morning surf turned deadly at Long Reef Beach in Sydney when a man was fatally attacked by what authorities suspect was a “large shark.” The incident occurred just after 10:00am local time on Saturday, sending shockwaves through the Northern Beaches community and prompting immediate beach closures from Manly to Narrabeen.
Emergency services rushed to the scene after receiving reports of a critically injured surfer. Despite efforts to revive him, the man—whose identity has not yet been confirmed—was pronounced dead on the shore. Witnesses described a harrowing scene, with fellow surfers pulling the victim from the water and lifeguards waving red flags to clear the beach.
Two sections of the man’s surfboard were recovered and are now undergoing forensic examination as authorities work with marine experts to determine the species of shark involved. The attack reportedly occurred about 100 metres offshore, in an area outside the lifeguard patrol zone.
This marks Sydney’s first fatal shark attack since 2022, when British diving instructor Simon Nellist was killed by a great white shark near Little Bay. Prior to that, the city had not recorded a deadly shark incident since 1963.
Australia averages around 20 shark attacks annually, with fatalities remaining rare. According to historical data, the country’s shark attack mortality rate stands at less than one death per year.
As authorities deploy drones and jet skis to monitor the waters, Surf Life Saving NSW has suspended all water activities for the weekend. Locals have been urged to stay out of the water and follow safety advisories as the investigation continues.
