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Twelve-year-old succumbs to injuries after shark bite
Nico Antic, a 12-year-old boy attacked by a shark in Sydney Harbour last week, has died in hospital, his family announced on Saturday.
Family mourns loss of 'kind and generous' boy
In a statement, Nico's parents, Lorena and Juan Antic, said they were "heartbroken" by their son's death. Originally from Argentina, the family described Nico as a "happy, friendly, and sporty" child with a "kind and generous spirit."
"He was always full of life, and that's how we'll remember him,"
Nico Antic's family
Friends hailed for bravery during attack
Nico was jumping off a rock ledge with friends on 18 January when he was bitten by what authorities believe was a bull shark. Witnesses said his friends immediately rushed to his aid, pulling him from the water despite the danger.
He was airlifted to Sydney Children's Hospital in critical condition, where he underwent emergency surgery and was placed in an induced coma. Despite medical efforts, his injuries proved fatal.
Spate of shark attacks along New South Wales coast
Nico's attack was one of four reported along the state's coastline within 48 hours. On Monday, a surfer on Sydney's northern beaches escaped a shark encounter unharmed, while hours later, a 27-year-old man suffered severe injuries in a separate attack at a nearby beach.
The following day, a 39-year-old man was rescued after a shark bite on the Mid North Coast, sustaining a chest wound.
Experts link attacks to recent weather conditions
Marine biologists suggest the recent surge in shark activity may be linked to heavy rainfall, which creates murky waters favoured by bull sharks. The downpours also wash nutrients into coastal areas, attracting sharks closer to shore.
In response, authorities closed multiple Sydney beaches until conditions improved. Many have since reopened for the Australia Day long weekend.
Community rallies to support grieving family
An online fundraiser for Nico's family has raised over $240,000 (£121,308) since the attack. Donations will assist with medical expenses and support the family during this difficult time.
