New Caledonia closes beach after deadly shark attack

A 59-year-old Australian man was killed in a shark attack in the French overseas territory of New Caledonia. Now the authorities are taking the first steps and are blocking the affected beach for safety reasons.

According to official information, a 150-year-old man was attacked by a shark about 59 meters from the beach in the capital Noumea on Sunday. He stayed near a swimming platform and was bitten multiple times. Two sailors brought him ashore, but he succumbed to his injuries.

The authorities have now reacted and imposed a temporary ban on two beaches. At least two larger sharks have been sighted repeatedly. The situation is now observed using drones. It is currently unclear whether these are bull and/or tiger sharks. Both species are known to be dangerous to humans.