BREAKING: A horrific shark attack at Kylies Beach in Crowdy Bay has left a 25-year-old woman dead and her boyfriend, aged 26, fighting for his life early this morning. The couple, believed to be tourists from Switzerland, were reportedly filming dolphins on a GoPro when the shocking incident occurred around 6:30 AM on Thursday.
Witnesses described a scene of chaos as the man bravely fought off the shark, sustaining severe injuries to his leg before managing to drag his girlfriend back to the shore of the unpatrolled beach. A bystander quickly called emergency services, and paramedics guided her to apply a tourniquet to the man’s thigh—an action that likely saved his life.
Despite immediate medical attention, the woman was tragically declared dead at the scene. The man was airlifted by a Westpac rescue helicopter to John Hunter Hospital, where he is now reported to be stable, according to hospital officials.
Authorities are now investigating the attack and will review the footage captured by the couple, which may provide crucial information on the shark involved. Experts suspect that a mature bull shark was responsible for the mauling.
Kylies Beach, a secluded area near a popular camping spot, is not monitored by lifeguards, and immediate beach closures have been enforced following the incident.
NSW Ambulance Superintendent Josh Smyth expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, highlighting the heroism of the bystanders who intervened.
“The courage from some bystanders is amazing in the situation… to put yourself out there is very heroic,”
Smyth stated during a press conference.
The MidCoast Council is collaborating with National Parks and Wildlife staff and Emergency Services as the investigation unfolds. Mayor Claire Pontin conveyed her condolences to the families affected, emphasizing the community’s shared grief.
As authorities continue their investigation, updates on the condition of the surviving victim and further findings about the shark involved are expected in the coming days. Stay tuned for the latest developments on this urgent situation.
