In a heartbreaking incident, a 12-year-old boy has tragically lost his life after being attacked by a shark in Sydney Harbour last week. Nico Antic, originally from Argentina, was jumping off a rock ledge with friends on 18 January when the attack occurred.
“We are heartbroken to share that our son, Nico has passed away,” his parents Lorena and Juan said in a statement. Nico was described as a “happy, friendly, and sporty young boy with the most kind and generous spirit” who was “always full of life.”
The incident was one of four reported shark attacks along the New South Wales coast over a two-day period. Nico’s friends were praised for their bravery in jumping into the water to help him after the attack, but the 12-year-old had suffered serious leg injuries and was taken to Sydney Children’s Hospital in critical condition. He was placed in an induced coma after undergoing surgery, but tragically passed away.
An online fundraiser set up for Nico’s family has already raised £121,308 (AUD$240,000) as the community comes together to support them during this unimaginably difficult time.
The spate of shark attacks in the region has been attributed to a “perfect storm” of conditions, with experts suggesting that heavy rain in the days prior had flushed nutrients into the water, drawing sharks closer to shore. Beaches across Sydney were temporarily closed to protect the public until the weather improved, many of which have since reopened for the Australia Day long weekend.
While shark attacks remain relatively rare, this tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers that can lurk in the ocean. Our thoughts are with Nico’s family and loved ones as they grieve this devastating loss.
