A father was killed in a shark attack while surfing with friends in Sydney, Australia.
At about 10 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 6, emergency services rushed to the Northern Beaches after reports that a man had suffered “critical injuries” from a bite by a “large shark,” according to a news release from New South Wales police.
“He was retrieved from the surf and brought to the shore; however, died at the scene,” police said.
The victim was identified as 57-year-old Mercury Psillakis. He had been surfing with friends about 100 meters off Long Reef Beach when the shark dragged him under roughly 30 minutes after entering the water, 7News Australia reported.
“Officers attached to Northern Beaches Police Area Command have closed the beach and will liaise with experts from the Department of Primary Industries to determine the species of shark involved,” NSW Police added. “Two sections of a surfboard have been recovered and taken for expert examination.”
Psillakis lost multiple limbs in the attack, Inspector Stuart Thomson said at a press conference, per 7News Australia.
“His friends managed to make it back to the beach safely, and a short time later his body was found floating in the surf. A couple of other people went out and recovered it,” Thomson explained. “Attempts to save his life were unsuccessful.”
Psillakis — who leaves behind a wife and young daughter — was an experienced surfer. He had been surfing north of the lifeguard tower toward Long Reef, outside of the patrolled area, Surf Life Saving NSW (SLSNSW) told ABC.
“Our deepest condolences go to the family of the man involved in this terrible tragedy,” SLSNSW CEO Steve Pearce said in a statement to the outlet. “Volunteers will continue to assist Council and authorities to protect the public from further danger in any way we can.”
Detective Superintendent John Duncan described the attack as a “freak” event that “very rarely” happens in the area, according to ABC. Rescue helicopters and police boats searched for the shark following the incident.
“Tomorrow being Father’s Day is particularly … tragic,” Thomson added, per 7News Australia. “Our heart goes out to the family.”
Authorities said beaches between Manly and Narrabeen will remain closed until further notice.
