A teenager has been praised for his “incredible” act after his uncle was fatally attacked by a 4.5m shark while spearfishing.
Tragic details have emerged about the moment a family leapt into action to try to save a man who ho was killed in a shark attack in Western Australia’s Great Southern.
Daniel Turpin, 35, was spearfishing with his family about 11.20am on Saturday at Michaelmas Island near Albany – about 420km southeast of Perth – when he was attacked by a 4.5m shark.
Despite paramedics’ efforts, Mr Turpin could not be saved.
Daniel Turpin died after a shark attack. Picture: Supplied
His death has shaken the community, with tributes remembering him as an “adored husband, son, brother and uncle who had a lifelong love and deep respect for the ocean”.
Albany Mayor Greg Stocks said the beloved father was on board a boat with his father and 14-year-old nephew when the incident unfolded.
The attack occurred at Michaelmas Island near Albany, WA. Picture: Wikipedia
The teenager was tasked with driving the boat 13km back to the shore in an effort to get help, Mr Stocks revealed.
“My understanding is that it was Daniel’s father and a 14-year-old nephew were on the boat, and the nephew was driving the boat while Wayne was attending to Daniel,” he told reporters.
“So incredible, to be honest, that a 14-year-old was able to get himself together to assist and get Daniel to port as quickly as possible.”
Mr Stocks said the father and teen deserved a bravery award.
”We would support that if that was what should happen, but the police would take control of that,” he said.
In a statement, Mr Turpin’s family said they were “devastated” by his death.
“Our family is devastated by this tragic loss and we are still coming to terms with what has happened,” they wrote per the ABC.
“Daniel brought enormous joy to the lives of those who knew and loved him, and he will be deeply missed.”
The attack comes three weeks after spearfisherman Steven Mattaboni died off Rottnest Island.
Mr Turpin’s death marks the second fatal shark attack off Western Australia in the past three weeks.
Steven Mattaboni, 38, was spearfishing with friends near Rottnest Island and swimming back to his boat when he was attacked by a 4m shark on Saturday May 17.
The father of two sustained serious injuries to his lower leg and could not be saved.
A funeral for the Perth man will be held on Tuesday.
“Steven was truly one of a kind – a loving husband, devoted father, and an incredibly kind and genuine man who brought warmth and happiness to those around him,” a tribute to Mr Mattaboni read.
“Above all else, he absolutely adored his girls and was the most amazing dad.”
