Swimmer Feared Dead After Suspected Shark Attack at Popular Perth Beach
Witnesses reported seeing a shark repeatedly attack a swimmer off Sorrento Beach, prompting a large-scale search operation.
A search is underway for a missing swimmer feared dead after a suspected shark attack at Sorrento Beach in Perth's north-west on Friday. Emergency services were called to the scene at 10:15 a.m. after receiving reports that a person had been bitten by a shark.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene, with one local man, Ryan Rowe, telling The West Australian that the shark grabbed the swimmer, pulled them underwater, and then resurfaced multiple times before the person disappeared.
"I couldn't believe there was that much blood come out of a human body," Rowe said. Another local, Daniel Saligari, reported seeing a large pool of blood close to the shore.
No details about the missing swimmer have been released, and ambulance crews have been stood down. Water police and the Police Air Wing remain at the scene, continuing a major search and rescue operation. The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development has launched an investigation into the incident.
Surf Life Saving WA reported a shark interaction in the area at 10:20 a.m. The species of shark involved is currently unknown. Sorrento Beach has been closed, and authorities have advised caution at surrounding beaches.
It is understood the suspected attack occurred approximately 15 meters from shore near the Sorrento Surf Life Saving Club. The missing swimmer had reportedly been on a boogie board with a friend at the time of the incident.
Sorrento Beach previously had an eco shark barrier installed in 2016, which was removed in 2020 due to maintenance costs and effectiveness issues related to swell and damage. Local residents have expressed concerns about the absence of shark mitigation measures.
This incident follows another shark attack on Monday, where surfer Mel Ismail, 56, was seriously injured at Glenfield Beach, north of Geraldton. Ismail is reported to be in a stable condition after losing part of his foot in the attack.
Surf Lifesaving WA's helicopter shark patrols for the summer season began last week.