A tragic shark attack claimed the life of a Sydney man on Saturday at Long Reef Beach, leaving the local community in shock.
The victim, identified as 57-year-old Mercury Psillakis, was an experienced surfer and father, survived by his wife and young daughter.
Emergency services rushed to the scene shortly after 10am after receiving reports of a critical incident involving the man in the surf. Despite efforts to save him, Psillakis died on the beach.
Eyewitnesses described the attack as horrifying. One bystander, Mark Morgenthal, recounted hearing the man cry out, “I don’t want to get bitten,” repeatedly before the shark struck.
Morgenthal estimated the shark’s size at around six metres, noting the large dorsal and tail fins visible above the water.
Police confirmed that Psillakis had gone out with a small group of friends that morning. They managed to return safely to shore, but the tragedy left one life lost.
Superintendent John Duncan of New South Wales Police described the incident as a devastating loss. He stated that the man suffered severe injuries and that multiple limbs were taken in the attack.
Authorities have retrieved parts of the surfboard involved, which will be examined as part of the investigation. Meanwhile, local beaches remain closed temporarily as drones and rescue teams monitor the area for further shark activity.
The attack occurs just one day before Father’s Day, intensifying the emotional impact on the victim’s family and community.
Surf Life Saving NSW chief Steve Pearce expressed condolences to the family, calling the incident a “terrible tragedy.”
Officials are coordinating with marine experts to identify the shark species responsible for the attack.
Fatal shark incidents are extremely rare in New South Wales. This is believed to be the state’s first deadly shark attack this year, with the previous one occurring in Sydney in February 2022 — the first since 1963.
Local surfers and residents have expressed heightened caution and concern following the event, as authorities emphasize beach safety and awareness.
Police continue to collect witness accounts and review surveillance from the area to gain further insight into the circumstances surrounding the attack.
The tragedy has prompted wider discussions about shark safety and measures to protect swimmers and surfers along Sydney’s coastline.
The community has rallied in support of Psillakis’ family, offering sympathy and condolences during an especially difficult period.
