Shark Kill Order Issued After Fatal Perth Attack

A 63-year-old swimmer, Greg O'Neill, was killed by a shark at Sorrento Beach in Perth, Western Australia, on September 18, 2026. In response, Western Australia's Fisheries Minister, Jackie Jarvis, authorized a rare catch-and-kill order for the shark involved, marking an extraordinary step due to the exceptional circumstances. The attack occurred around 10:30 a.m. local time while O'Neill was swimming with a friend approximately 50 metres offshore. Witnesses reported seeing blood in the water, and the friend was consoled by rescuers upon reaching shore. Lifesavers attempted a rescue but were unable to locate O'Neill, whose body has not been recovered as of September 20, 2026. Authorities identified the shark as a great white, with water police positively confirming its involvement. However, the shark remains at large. Minister Jarvis stated that the catch-and-kill order was issued because the shark posed an ongoing threat and to assist in recovering potential coronial evidence.