Western Australia Spearfisher Killed In Shark Attack Near Michaelmas Island

A 35-year-old man has died following a shark attack near Michaelmas Island, off the southern coast of Western Australia.

Police said the man had been spearfishing with his family in waters near Albany when the attack occurred. Emergency medical workers treated him, but he later succumbed to his injuries.

Investigators said a witness reported seeing a shark measuring about 4.5 metres, or 15 feet, close to Michaelmas Island. The species has not been identified. The island is not known for heavy visitor traffic.

Western Australia's Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development advised the public to use “additional caution” around the area and to keep checking official shark-sighting updates.

The death marks Australia's fourth fatal shark incident so far this year. Last month, one man was killed by a great white shark near Rottnest Island, close to Perth, while another died after a shark attack off Queensland's northeastern coast. In January, a 12-year-old boy was fatally attacked in Sydney Harbour.

Scientists in Australia say busier coastal waters and warmer seas may be altering shark migration routes, possibly playing a role in increased attacks. The Institute of Health and Welfare says most shark encounters happen along the country's eastern and southeastern coastlines, with roughly 20 incidents recorded annually.