Loved ones of a 12-year-old boy who was attacked by a shark in Sydney Harbour on Sunday have provided an upsetting update on his condition following the incident.
Identified as Nico Antic, the child was at Shark Beach in Sydney Harbour with friends when the attack occurred. The group was engaged in rock jumping when Nico was believed to have been bitten by a bull shark.
This incident marked the first of a series of four shark attacks that transpired after Nico was hospitalized. Promptly responding, first aiders praised Nico’s friends for their courage as they ventured into the water to rescue him. Nico was swiftly transported to Sydney Children’s Hospital in critical condition.
Following the attack, Nico underwent emergency surgery on Sunday night due to severe injuries to both his legs. His family shared a grim prognosis, revealing that Nico has been in a coma since the tragic event.
In a heart-wrenching statement, Nico’s sister, Sophie, expressed their family’s sorrow, indicating that Nico’s brain is unresponsive, rendering recovery unlikely. She described Nico as a cheerful and active individual cherished by many.
A GoFundMe campaign was initiated by family friend Victor Piñeiro to assist the Antic family during this difficult period. The fundraiser aimed to help cover upcoming expenses, with donations pouring in from over 1,700 individuals, totaling more than AUD$122,000 (£61,000).
Regrettably, Nico was the initial victim of a spate of shark attacks sweeping across New South Wales, Australia. Beaches in the northern region were closed for 48 hours after several incidents, including a 39-year-old man’s mauling and critical injuries sustained by a 27-year-old at North Steyne Beach.
Shark experts attribute the increased shark activity to favorable conditions brought about by warm ocean temperatures and murky waters following recent storms in New South Wales. Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steve Pearce advised against swimming in areas where rivers meet the ocean due to potential shark congregation.
To support the Antic family, contributions can be made to the GoFundMe campaign set up for them.