A 12-year-old boy has died from injuries sustained in a shark attack at one of Sydney's most popular swimming destinations last weekend.
The boy's friends had bravely jumped into the water during the attack, rushing to assist Nico and dragging him to safety. NSW Ambulance paramedics transported him to The Children's Hospital at Randwick in critical condition, where medical teams provided around-the-clock care in a fight to save his life. On Saturday, Jan. 24, authorities confirmed that Nico had died in the hospital.
The family extended their gratitude to those who worked tirelessly on their son's behalf. "We would like to sincerely thank the first responders and the teams at Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick for everything they did to care for Nico," they said, while requesting privacy during this exceptionally difficult period.
Nico's death comes after the region experienced four separate shark attacks within three days. The incidents included attacks on other swimmers and surfers, with one surfer at Point Plomer sustaining minor injuries and two others in Sydney experiencing critical leg wounds.
Recent rainfall had created ideal conditions for bull shark attacks. Authorities hve closed multiple beaches across New South Wales's northern coast and deployed electronic drumlines—devices that alert officials when large sharks take bait—off the Sydney coast.
"On behalf of the NSW Opposition and our local community, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Antic family and Nico's friends," she said. "Our community is mourning the loss of a young life taken far too soon."
Sloane specifically recognized the heroic response from Nico's friends and first responders. "I want to thank the first responders and Nico's friends who did everything they could to help their mate," she stated.
NSW Police announced that a report will be prepared for the coroner regarding the circumstances surrounding the attack.