ROTTNEST ISLAND, Australia – A 38-year-old father was tragically killed Saturday after being attacked by a massive Great White shark while spearfishing with friends off the coast of Rottnest Island.
The Attack
The victim, identified by family members as Steven Mattaboni, was diving near a boat on a local coral reef when the incident occurred. Western Australia Police reported that Mattaboni was bitten severely on his legs.
His friends witnessed the horrific event and immediately pulled him back onto the dive boat. They rushed him 1,100 yards to Rottnest Island, where waiting paramedics attempted life-saving measures, but he could not be resuscitated.
The Predator Identified
Lifeguards had reported seeing a 16-foot Great White shark in the area shortly before the tragedy. The state’s Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development later confirmed that the shark involved was indeed a Great White.
Western Australia Premier Roger Cook expressed deep condolences on social media, calling the incident “deeply distressing” and praising the immediate efforts of the first responders.
Rising Trends in Shark Encounters
This tragedy marks Australia’s second fatal shark attack of the year. It follows a January incident where a 12-year-old boy lost his life after being mauled by a bull shark in Sydney Harbor.
Historically, Australia averages more than three fatal shark attacks per year. Researchers point to two major factors influencing these recent encounters:
- Crowded Waters: More people engaging in water sports and coastal activities.
- Rising Ocean Temperatures: Shifting marine climates that alter the migratory and hunting patterns of large predators.
