Scuba diver killed in Australia shark attack

A scuba diver was killed on Saturday after being attacked by a shark off the coast of Australia’s Queensland state, local authorities said.

The 20-year-old man was bitten around the legs near Indian Head on the eastern side of Fraser Island.

A doctor and nurse at the scene provided first aid until paramedics arrived and were winched down by helicopter. They provided emergency treatment but the man could not be saved and died at the scene, Queensland Ambulance Service said.

Queensland police were not immediately able to identify the victim in Saturday’s attack. They said a report was being prepared for the coroner.

Fraser Coast mayor George Seymour said that the attack was a tragic event for the local community.

“Our deepest condolences go to this young man’s family and friends,” he said. “The loss of a young life with his future before him is a tragedy beyond words. We share their sadness and grief.”

The attack happened not far from where 23-year-old Queensland wildlife ranger Zachary Robba was fatally mauled by a great white shark in April.

At least four people have died in shark attacks in Australia this year. A 57-year-old diver was killed off Western Australia state in January and a 60-year-old surfer was killed off Kingscliff in New South Wales state in June.

Additional reporting by AP