Third fatal Australia shark attack in three weeks as man killed off west coast

A fatal shark attack off the coast of Western Australia has claimed the life of a 35-year-old man, marking a grim milestone as the third such incident in Australia within a three-week period.

The man was spearfishing with family members on Saturday morning near Michaelmas Island, a nature reserve located off the state's south coast, approximately 388 kilometers south of Perth. Paramedics were present at the scene and provided treatment for over two hours, but the man succumbed to his injuries.

Authorities reported that a large shark, estimated to be 4.5 meters (14.8 feet) long and of an unidentified species, was observed by a member of the public in the vicinity of Michaelmas Island on the same day.

This latest fatality follows two other fatal shark attacks in May. On May 24, a 39-year-old man died after being attacked while fishing in the Great Barrier Reef. Ten days prior to that, a 38-year-old man was mauled near Perth.

In response to the recent spate of attacks, the department of primary industries has issued a warning, urging increased caution for anyone in the Michaelmas Island area. The public has been advised to adhere to any beach closures or advisories issued by local park rangers or surf life savers. The department is collaborating with police and other local authorities to manage the response to these incidents.