Tragic Shark Attack Claims Life of 12-Year-Old Boy in Sydney

Sat Jan 24 2026 18:17:35 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A heartbreaking incident in Sydney as a young boy, Nico Antic, succumbs to injuries from a shark attack while enjoying a day out with friends.

Nico Antic, a 12-year-old boy, has died after sustaining injuries from a shark attack in Sydney Harbour. The attack occurred on January 18 while he was jumping off a rock ledge with friends. His parents expressed their heartbreak over his passing, and a community fundraiser in support of his family has raised substantial funds. This incident is part of a troubling increase in shark attacks along Australia's east coast.

A young boy who was bitten by a shark in Sydney Harbour last week has died in hospital.

Twelve-year-old Nico Antic had been jumping off a rock ledge with friends on 18 January when he was attacked by what authorities suspected was a bull shark.

We are heartbroken to share that our son, Nico has passed away, his parents Lorena and Juan said in a statement.

The incident was one of four reported shark attacks along the New South Wales coast over two days.

Nico was described by his family as a happy, friendly, and sporty young boy with a kind spirit.

His friends were praised for their bravery after jumping into the water to help him after he was attacked. Although he suffered serious leg injuries and underwent surgery, he was left in a critical condition.

An online fundraiser set up for Nico's family has raised $240,000 (£121,308) as the community rallies in support.

This incident follows a spate of shark attacks along Australia's east coast, sparked by recent heavy rains which created conditions attractive to sharks.

In response, beaches across Sydney were temporarily closed to safeguard the public until conditions improved.