A 40-year-old man visiting Kendek Island in New Caledonia with his family has died following a shark attack, authorities confirmed on Friday.
According to the public prosecutor’s office, the incident occurred on Thursday while the victim was fishing. The shark inflicted a severe arm injury, leaving the man unconscious.
The victim was transported to a hospital on Grande Terre, New Caledonia’s main island, but faced a tragic delay as the emergency department had been closed since January 1 due to staffing shortages. Despite efforts by a medical team dispatched from the south, resuscitation attempts were unsuccessful.
Authorities did not disclose the species of shark involved.
New Caledonia has seen a rise in shark attacks in recent years. In 2023, Noumea initiated preventative shark hunting campaigns to improve beach safety amid growing concerns.
The incident highlights ongoing challenges in addressing shark-related fatalities and maintaining emergency services in remote areas.
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