Swimmer Dies in Rare Shark Attack Off KuGompo City Coast
Orient Beach and Eastern Beach closed indefinitely as authorities investigate fatal incident.
Callum Smith
A 65-year-old female swimmer died following a shark attack off Orient Beach in KuGompo City, South Africa.
Police responded around 7:00 am local time. They discovered the woman's body with 'open wounds'. Emergency services brought her ashore, pronouncing her dead on the beach.
Witnesses reported the victim sustained bites in two places. She died before reaching the shore. Other swimmers saw a shark's tail and fin moments before the attack.
The woman, a regular swimmer, had been with a group when the incident occurred. Mike Loewe identifies the victim as a recently retired nuclear radiographer and a musician.
Relevant authorities remain on site. An inquest into the death has begun. The victim's name will be released once her family receives notification.
South Africa is known for its great white sharks and shark tourism. Shark attacks remain rare.