Spearfisher mauled on Great Barrier Reef in Australia's second fatal shark attack in a week
AP News • • world
Key Points:
- A 39-year-old spearfisher was fatally attacked by a shark at Kennedy Shoal on the Great Barrier Reef, marking Australia's second deadly shark attack in just over a week.
- The man, a Cairns resident, was diving with three friends when the attack occurred, resulting in critical head injuries that were not survivable.
- Kennedy Shoal is a popular spot for recreational fishing and diving, with previous sightings of bull sharks reported in the area.
- Earlier in May, another spearfisher was killed by a suspected five-meter white shark near Rottnest Island, Western Australia.
- Australia averages over three fatal shark attacks annually, and this incident is the third shark-related death recorded in 2026.