A tragic shark attack off the coast of Rottnest Island has left a 38-year-old diver dead after a massive great white shark reportedly attacked him while he was spearfishing with friends.

Authorities confirmed the horrifying incident occurred Saturday near a coral reef off the popular tourist destination near Australia’s southwest coast.

According to Western Australia Police, the victim had been diving alongside friends when the shark attacked in front of witnesses.

Police Sergeant Michael Wear described the event as “horrific,” explaining that the victim’s companions directly witnessed the fatal mauling unfold in the water.

Officials said the diver was near a dive boat when the shark bit him on the legs.

Friends immediately rushed him aboard the vessel and transported him roughly 1,100 yards back toward the island in a desperate attempt to save his life.

Despite emergency efforts by paramedics waiting onshore, the diver could not be revived.

Authorities later confirmed that lifeguards had reportedly spotted a massive 16-foot shark in the area shortly before the attack.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development told media outlets the victim was believed to have been attacked by a great white shark.

The tragedy marks Australia’s second fatal shark attack of the year and has reignited national discussion surrounding marine safety, shark behavior, and the risks associated with spearfishing in waters known for large predator activity.

Marine experts explain that spearfishing can increase the likelihood of shark encounters because injured fish, vibrations, and blood released into the water may attract predatory species from significant distances.

Great white sharks are among the ocean’s most powerful apex predators and are known to inhabit parts of Australia’s southern and western coastlines.

Despite the terrifying nature of attacks, marine biologists emphasize that fatal shark incidents remain statistically rare considering the enormous number of people entering Australian waters every year.

Still, shark encounters often generate intense public fear because of their sudden violence and the limited ability victims have to defend themselves once an attack begins.

Mental health experts say incidents witnessed directly by friends or family members can create especially severe emotional trauma for survivors, particularly in isolated marine environments where rescue options are limited.

The attack has deeply shaken the local community and visitors to Rottnest Island, a destination internationally known for tourism, diving, and marine wildlife experiences.

Authorities continue monitoring the surrounding waters while marine officials assess shark activity in the area.

Meanwhile, tributes have begun appearing online for the victim as friends and loved ones mourn a life lost during what began as an ordinary recreational outing on the water.

As investigators continue reviewing the circumstances surrounding the attack, the tragedy stands as another painful reminder of the unpredictable dangers that can exist in open ocean environments — especially when humans enter waters shared with some of nature’s most powerful predators.