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Community Mourns Victim of Fatal Shark Attack in South Australia
Emergency responders are currently engaged in search efforts for a 28-year-old man presumed to have fallen victim to a deadly shark attack in South Australia. Lance Appleby, originally from Port Lincoln, was reportedly attacked while surfing near Granites Beach, located south of Streaky Bay on the Eyre Peninsula, around 7 PM on a Thursday evening.
Upon receiving reports of the incident, local police mobilized quickly, initiating a coordinated search operation that involved the State Emergency Service as well as volunteers from the community. As of Friday afternoon, there had been no sign of Appleby’s body, prompting ongoing search efforts.
Map showing the location of the shark attack in South Australia
A comprehensive search involving air, land, and water units recommenced early Friday morning. In response to the incident, the beach has been closed to the public, and residents are advised to steer clear of the area.
This surf spot is situated approximately 700 kilometers northwest of Adelaide, making it a well-known location for surfers.
Acting Assistant Commissioner of Metropolitan Operations, John De Candia, confirmed that authorities believe Appleby was indeed taken by a shark, and they are focusing their efforts on recovering his body. “A report will be prepared for the coroner,” De Candia stated, expressing condolences as he noted the tragic nature of the incident for Appleby’s family. He added, “Any death in these circumstances is absolutely tragic and does have a wide impact on lots of people.”
Eyewitnesses and community members have reported recent shark sightings in the vicinity, leading De Candia to suggest that local insights should be taken into consideration. “Sometimes it’s best to listen to the locals,” he remarked. At the same time, he urged individuals to make informed choices when it comes to engaging in ocean activities.
This incident follows a concerning trend in the region; in 2023, a teacher named Simon Baccanello, aged 46, lost his life in a suspected shark attack at Walkers Rock Beach, while another tragic case involved 55-year-old Tod Gendle, who was killed while surfing at Granites Beach. Neither of their bodies was recovered. Additionally, a 15-year-old boy, Khai Cowley, sustained serious injuries from an encounter with a suspected great white shark while surfing off the remote Ethel Beach on the Yorke Peninsula.
As search efforts continue, the community is left to grapple with the profound impact of this tragedy and the ongoing risks associated with ocean sports in the region.
Source
www.theguardian.com