Fatal Incident
Fatal Great White Shark Attack During Spearfishing off Albany, Western Australia
A 35-year-old spearfisherman was fatally attacked by a 4.5-meter great white shark near Michaelmas Island in King George Sound on June 6, 2026. Despite rapid emergency response efforts, the victim could not be saved.
Please take a moment to consider the human impact of this event on the victim and their loved ones. The data presented here documents real events that affected real people and families.
Incident Profile
Circumstances
Environmental
Individual
Location
Description
On June 6, 2026, at approximately 11:20 AM local time, a fatal shark attack occurred near Michaelmas Island off Albany, Western Australia, in King George Sound approximately 420 kilometers southeast of Perth. A 35-year-old man was engaged in recreational spearfishing with family members, including his father and a 14-year-old nephew, when he was attacked by a great white shark measuring 4.5 meters in length. The attack resulted in critical head injuries. Following the incident, the teenager aboard the vessel demonstrated remarkable presence of mind, piloting the boat approximately 13 kilometers back to shore to alert emergency services. Paramedics responded rapidly and initiated resuscitation efforts, but the victim could not be saved. Family members released a statement describing the deceased as "an adored husband, son, brother and uncle who had a lifelong love and deep respect for the ocean." Albany Mayor Greg Stocks acknowledged the profound impact on the community, expressing hope that local support would provide comfort to the grieving family and friends. The incident underscores the inherent risks associated with ocean-based recreational activities while also highlighting the courage demonstrated by family members who responded during the emergency.