Tragic Loss: 12-Year-Old Boy Dies Following Shark Attack in Sydney

Mon Feb 02 2026 17:44:17 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The community mourns the loss of Nico Antic, whose life was tragically cut short after a shark attack in Sydney Harbour.

Nico Antic, a 12-year-old boy, has succumbed to injuries sustained from a shark attack in Sydney Harbour last week. The incident, which involves a suspected bull shark, is part of a series of attacks along the New South Wales coast, raising concerns about local beach safety. Nico’s family expresses their heartbreak while friends are praised for their bravery during the attack. The community has rallied in support, raising substantial funds for the family.

A young boy who was bitten by a shark in Sydney Harbour last week has died in hospital.

Twelve-year-old Nico Antic had been jumping off a rock ledge with friends on 18 January when he was attacked by what authorities suspected was a bull shark.

We are heartbroken to share that our son, Nico has passed away, his parents Lorena and Juan said in a statement.

The incident was one of four reported shark attacks along the New South Wales coast over two days.

Nico was described as a happy, friendly, and sporty boy with a kind and generous spirit. His family, originally from Argentina, stated, Nico was always full of life and that's how we'll remember him. His friends displayed bravery by jumping into the water to help him after the attack.

Although he suffered serious leg injuries and was taken to the hospital in critical condition, after surgery he was placed in an induced coma. An online fundraiser set up for Nico's family has raised $240,000.

The recent shark incidents, occurring alongside several days of heavy rain that create conditions preferred by bull sharks, have provoked a community response. Following the attacks, beaches across Sydney have been closed to protect the public, although many have recently reopened for the Australia Day long weekend.