Shark attack on popular beach: surfboard surfaces - surfer remains missing

Wharton Beach (Australia) - A tragic accident has occurred at a popular surfing spot in Australia. A surfer was attacked by a shark, but so far only his surfboard has surfaced.

Wharton Beach is a popular destination, even among tourists.
Wharton Beach is a popular destination, even among tourists.  © 123rf/alfotokounst

The incident occurred today, Monday, at Wharton Beach, around 700 kilometers southeast of Perth.

According to SharkSmart, a government website, the surfer's surfboard has been found, but the surfer has not.

The police are currently searching for the missing person.

As reported by ABC News , among others, the person was seen in the water around midday when he was apparently attacked by the shark. According to WAtoday, the attack lasted several minutes. Clear bite marks were also reportedly seen on the surfboard.

Bite marks from the shark were found on the surfboard. (symbolic image)
Bite marks from the shark were found on the surfboard. (symbolic image)  © Helmut Fohringer/EPA/dpa

The beach, which is one of the most popular surfing spots in the region, has been closed ever since. There have already been three fatal shark accidents there in the past five years.