Missing Surfer Presumed Dead After Shark Attack in South Australia

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Authorities in South Australia are searching for a surfer who is believed to have been killed in a shark attack. Lance Appleby, a 28-year-old from Port Lincoln, went missing while surfing at Granites beach near Streaky Bay on Thursday evening. Witnesses reported seeing him attacked, prompting a swift response from emergency services.

A witness attempted to rescue the surfer using a jet ski, but despite efforts, Mr. Appleby's body has not yet been located. Senior Constable Rebecca Stokes indicated that the descriptions from witnesses lead them to believe he has tragically lost his life to a shark.

The South Australia Police have initiated an extensive search involving air, land, and water resources, which is set to continue on January 3. This incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, as remarked by Assistant Police Commissioner John De Candia, who described it as "absolutely tragic."

Notably, Granites beach has had a recent history of shark attacks; another individual was killed by a white shark there in 2023. The beach remains closed to the public as investigations continue. Shark researcher Dr. Brianna Le Busque noted that great white sharks are more active during the summer months, which coincides with the increased number of beachgoers, heightening the possibility of shark encounters. South Australia has seen an unprecedented rise in shark attacks, with three fatalities reported last year alone.

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