Nico Antic was swimming with friends on 18 January, jumping from a rock ledge into the water, when he was bitten by a shark believed to be a bull shark. He was rushed to Sydney Children’s Hospital with severe leg injuries and placed in an induced coma after emergency surgery.

His parents, Lorena and Juan, confirmed his death in a heartfelt statement, describing Nico as a joyful, kind, and energetic boy who loved sport and life. They said he would always be remembered for his generous spirit and bright personality.

Friends who were with Nico at the time of the attack were praised for their bravery after they immediately jumped into the water to help him and get him to safety.

The incident was one of several shark attacks reported along the New South Wales coast in a short period, raising alarm among beachgoers and authorities. In the days following Nico’s attack, multiple people were bitten in separate incidents, with some suffering serious, life-altering injuries.

Marine experts say recent heavy rainfall may have contributed to the increase in shark activity. Murky water conditions and the movement of nutrients closer to shore are known to attract bull sharks, which often swim in shallow coastal areas.

In response, several Sydney beaches were temporarily closed as a precaution, though many have since reopened ahead of the Australia Day long weekend.

An online fundraiser set up to support Nico’s family has drawn widespread support, raising hundreds of thousands as messages of sympathy pour in from across Australia and beyond.

Nico’s death has deeply shaken the community, prompting renewed conversations about beach safety and the unpredictable risks of Australia’s coastal waters.

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