Man Dies After Shark Attack Off Western Australia Coast Near Rottnest Island

A man has died after being attacked by a shark off the coast of Western Australia on Saturday morning, police confirmed, marking the second fatal shark attack in the country this year.

The 38-year-old victim, who has not yet been formally identified, was bitten while in the water at Horseshoe Reef near Rottnest Island, approximately 31 kilometres west of Perth. According to Western Australia Police, emergency services were called to the scene shortly after the incident was reported.

The man was brought back to shore following the attack, but efforts to revive him were unsuccessful. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities said a report will be prepared for the coroner to determine the exact circumstances surrounding his death.

State officials have urged swimmers and visitors to exercise heightened caution in the waters around Rottnest Island, a popular destination known for its beaches and recreational diving spots. The area remained open, but warnings were issued following the incident.

Footage broadcast by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation showed a significant emergency response, including a police vessel, officers on the shoreline, and a rescue helicopter deployed with a stretcher as authorities coordinated recovery efforts.

The incident adds to a series of shark encounters in Australia in recent months. In January, a boy was killed in a separate shark attack in Sydney Harbour, prompting renewed attention on coastal safety and marine wildlife risks along the country’s populated shoreline.

According to Australia’s Institute of Health and Welfare, shark attacks are most commonly recorded along the country’s east and southeast coasts, with an average of around 20 incidents reported annually. While fatal attacks remain rare, authorities note that they tend to generate heightened public concern, particularly in peak swimming and tourism seasons.

Officials have not confirmed the species of shark involved in Saturday’s attack, and investigations are ongoing. Marine authorities are expected to review local conditions and recent shark activity patterns in the area as part of the broader inquiry.

Search and safety teams continue to monitor waters around Rottnest Island as part of precautionary measures. Authorities have also reiterated general safety guidance for swimmers, including avoiding isolated areas, staying in groups, and adhering to local warnings.

The coroner’s findings, once completed, are expected to provide further clarity on the circumstances of the incident and whether any additional safety measures may be considered for the region.