Search Intensifies for Surfer Feared Dead Following Shark Attack at South Australian Beach

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Search Intensifies for Surfer Feared Dead Following Shark Attack at South Australian Beach

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Search Intensifies for Surfer Feared Dead Following Shark Attack at South Australian Beach

Credited from: CBSNEWS

WELLINGTON, New Zealand — A search operation is ongoing for a 28-year-old surfer who is feared to have died in a shark attack off Granites Beach, near the coastal town of Streaky Bay, Australia. Authorities reported that the man was surfing on Thursday evening when witnesses observed a shark attack, prompting an immediate response from local police and emergency services (AP News).

Senior Constable Rebecca Stokes detailed the incident, revealing that a jet ski rider managed to recovery the man's surfboard but found no sign of the surfer. “From witnesses’ descriptions we’re pretty confident that sadly he’s been killed by this shark,” she explained (CBS News). The beach, known for its shark presence, has since been closed to the public as search efforts continue along air, land, and water.

The state of South Australia has experienced an increase in shark attacks over the past two years, with five recorded attacks in 2023, three of which were fatal. According to the Australian Shark Incident Database, there have been 255 fatal shark bites reported in Australia since 1791 (USA Today).

Authorities have not yet confirmed the shark species involved but noted that a local fisherman spotted a large great white shark in the vicinity shortly before the attack. Officials are preparing a report for the coroner as part of the ongoing investigation (CBS News). Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to contact the police.