A 17-year-old girl has died in a suspected shark attack at Woorim Beach, a popular tourist destination off the southeast coast of Queensland, Australia.
Emergency services were called to the scene around 4:45 p.m. on Monday, February 3, following reports of a “serious shark bite incident.”
The teenager was reportedly swimming approximately 100 meters offshore at the southeastern end of Bribie Island when the attack occurred.
She sustained catastrophic injuries to her upper arm and body and could not be revived despite efforts by first responders. The species of shark involved has yet to be identified.
Footage from the scene showed more than a dozen emergency personnel assisting and speaking with distressed beachgoers. A young girl was seen sitting on the shoreline, visibly upset and being comforted.
Lifeguards noted that the tragedy follows several recent shark sightings in the area. Woorim Beach is a well-known spot for campers, surfers, and 4WD enthusiasts, being the closest surf beach north of Brisbane.
Authorities regularly monitor the area using drumlines and drone surveillance to track shark activity.
“Our hearts break for her family and friends during this unimaginable time,” Moreton Bay councillor Mark Booth shared in an online post. “May they find strength and comfort in the support of their loved ones and the community.”
Police have confirmed that a report will be prepared for the coroner.
This incident marks the first fatal shark attack in the Greater Brisbane region since 2006, when 21-year-old Sarah Whiley lost her life on North Stradbroke Island. It also comes just weeks after youth pastor Luke Walford was killed in a shark attack near Humpy Island, off the central Queensland coast.
