Perth Shark Attack: Beaches Shut as Deadly Encounter Sparks Rare Kill Order
Authorities in Western Australia are still searching for the shark that killed a swimmer on Friday.
A rare "catch-and-kill" order has been issued for a great white shark off the coast of Western Australia, following a fatal attack on a swimmer at Sorrento Beach in Perth's north on Friday morning. The victim's body remains unrecovered.
Beaches along Western Australia's coast, including the capital Perth, will remain closed until at least Sunday while search efforts continue. This incident marks the second shark attack in WA this week and the third fatal attack in the state this year.
The swimmer has been identified as 63-year-old Greg O'Neil, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). His family released a statement paying tribute to his passion for the ocean and his love for swimming, sports, and life.
Witnesses described seeing a shark "mauled" a man in the water, with one witness reporting a "pool of blood." Another reported seeing an 8-foot-2-inch (2.5m) long shark at the scene.
The Joondalup area, where Sorrento Beach is located, has closed all beaches as a precautionary measure until at least midday on Sunday. Police boats and helicopters are patrolling the coastline.
Catch-and-Kill Order: A Rare and Controversial Step
Catch-and-kill orders are uncommon in Australia, where great white sharks are protected species. Western Australia Fisheries Minister Jackie Jarvis issued this "extraordinary" order after water police positively identified the shark involved in the attack on Saturday morning.
Jarvis emphasized that the order was not a widespread cull but a one-time measure due to the exceptional circumstances and the hazard posed by the shark. She also announced plans to increase the use of drones and tagging to better protect beachgoers.