Additional Coverage:
- Swimmer dies in great white shark attack near popular Rottnest Island vacation resort (themirror.com)
A 38-year-old man has died following a devastating shark attack off the coast of Western Australia. The incident occurred at Horseshoe Reef, near Perth, where the swimmer was reportedly attacked by a 13-foot great white shark.
Emergency services responded swiftly after receiving reports of the attack around 9:55 a.m. on Saturday, May 16, 2026. The victim was transported by boat to shore, where paramedics administered CPR in an effort to save his life. Despite their efforts, authorities confirmed that the man could not be revived.
Western Australia’s Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development confirmed the involvement of a great white shark and urged the public to exercise increased caution when entering nearby waters. Surf Life Saving WA also reported that a large shark had been spotted approximately 87 yards from shore at the time of the attack.
This tragic event marks the first fatal shark attack near the popular Rottnest Island since March of last year, when a surfer lost their life on a remote beach. Historical records dating back to 1791 indicate that around 1,300 shark attacks have occurred in the region, with roughly 260 resulting in fatalities.
While shark attacks remain relatively rare worldwide, there are typically 65 to 80 unprovoked attacks annually, with an average of 6 to 12 resulting in death. Authorities are currently preparing a report for the Coroner as investigations continue into this latest tragedy.