Western Australia Shark Attack Update: Major developments have emerged in the suspected shark attack that occurred off Western Australia’s south coast, where the victim has been identified as 35-year-old Daniel Turpin, as reported by 9News. Turpin was spearfishing with relatives near Michaelmas Island off Albany when the fatal incident occurred at around 11:20 a.m. local time on Saturday (June 6, 2026), with his devastated family paying tribute to an “adored husband, son, brother and uncle.” In the family's first public statement, they said Turpin had shared a lifelong bond with the ocean.
“Daniel was an adored husband, son, brother and uncle who had a lifelong love and deep respect for the ocean. Our family is devastated by this tragic loss, and we are still coming to terms with what has happened. Daniel brought enormous joy to the lives of those who knew and loved him, and he will be deeply missed,” Turpin’s family said, as quoted by 9News.
The family also expressed gratitude to those who assisted in the aftermath of the attack. “We would like to thank the emergency services personnel and all those who have offered their support and compassion during this incredibly difficult time.” The 35-year-old man died after being bitten by a suspected 4.5-metre shark, reported 9News. The incident marks the latest shark-related tragedy to occur in the state’s coastal waters.
According to WA Police, Turpin was spearfishing off Michaelmas Island with family members when he was attacked before being brought back to shore by boat. St John Ambulance WA paramedics were waiting to provide assistance. The incident was reported to the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD). Following the attack, authorities urged residents to exercise extra caution in the Michaelmas Island area and comply with local beach closures.
Australia has seen multiple shark attacks in 2026, with the latest incident coming just weeks after another fatal attack off the coast of Western Australia.
In that earlier case, 38-year-old Steven Mattaboni was killed while spearfishing near Horseshoe Reef, about one kilometre off the coast of the island near Perth. He was in the water with friends when he suffered bites to both legs from what authorities believed to be a great white shark.
