A shark attack at Kylies Beach in Crowdy Bay National Park, New South Wales, resulted in the death of a woman in her 20s and serious injuries to a man of the same age. The incident occurred around 6:30 a.m. local time on Thursday, approximately 360 kilometers north of Sydney. Emergency services were alerted after reports of two individuals being bitten by a shark while swimming.

Police Chief Inspector Timothy Bayly confirmed that the victims were known to each other and were swimming together when the attack happened. A bystander provided immediate assistance before paramedics arrived, but the woman was pronounced dead at the scene. The man was airlifted to a hospital in Newcastle, where he is reported to be in serious but stable condition.

Paramedic Josh Smyth praised the bystander’s quick thinking, stating, "I just really need to have a shoutout to the bystander on the beach who put a makeshift tourniquet on the male’s leg which obviously potentially saved his life and allowed New South Wales Ambulance paramedics to get to him and render first aid."

The identities of the victims have not been officially released, but reports indicate they were Swiss nationals. The Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed their nationality and stated that the Swiss Consulate General in Sydney is in contact with local authorities to support the victims' relatives.

In response to the attack, beaches in the area have been closed indefinitely as authorities work to capture the shark involved. Bayly mentioned that scientists believe the shark responsible is likely a 10-foot-long bull shark. Drumlines, which are baited hooks suspended from floats, have been deployed off Kylies Beach to capture the animal for identification.

Gavin Naylor, director of the University of Florida’s shark research program, noted that it is rare for a single shark to attack multiple people. "It is very unusual," he said. "Individual shark attacks are rare. And shark attacks on two people by the same individual is not unheard of, but it’s very rare."

The incident has raised concerns about shark safety in the region, where authorities are taking measures to ensure public safety while investigating the attack. In 2024, Australia recorded nine unprovoked shark attacks with no fatalities, highlighting the rarity of such incidents. Bull sharks are known for their aggressive nature and ability to thrive in both salt and fresh water, making them a significant concern for swimmers.