A rare catch-and-kill order has been issued for a great white shark off the coast of Western Australia after 63-year-old swimmer Greg O’Neill was killed at a popular beach on Friday. His body has still not been found.
Authorities have said that beaches along the state’s coast, including in the capital Perth, will remain closed until at least Sunday as the search for the shark continues.
It is the second shark attack in Western Australia (WA) this week, and the third fatal attack in the state this year.
The incident, at Sorrento Beach in Perth’s north, has reignited debate about how to keep beachgoers safe in Australia.
In a statement, Greg O’Neill’s family said they were “deeply shocked and devastated by the terrible tragedy.”
“Greg loved the ocean and was known as a passionate swimmer, sports lover, dedicated worker and an all-round generous, witty guy.”
On Saturday, his family visited the scene, where locals have been laying flowers.
Witness Jacqui Rapaic told the ABC that two men were swimming, but only one made it back to shore, and that she could see “a pool of blood” in the water.
Another witness told WAtoday that she saw the man being “mauled” as the shark “tossed him around like a fish”. Members of the public reported seeing a 2.5m-long (8ft 2in) shark at around the same time.
Authorities in Perth’s Joondalup area, where Sorrento is located, said all beaches were closed “as a precautionary measure” and would remain so until at least midday on Sunday.
Pictures on Saturday showed the coastline being patrolled by a police boat and helicopter.
