Spearfisherman Fatally Attacked by Suspected 15‑Foot Shark – Third Deadly Incident in Under a Month

On a bright, breezy morning, veteran spearfisherman Mark Ridgeway set out for what he thought would be another routine outing. He was in the water near Cape Marlborough, a spot prized for its clear visibility and abundant fish, when the unimaginable happened.

According to witnesses on a nearby boat, Ridgeway was cruising a short distance from shore with his speargun slung over his shoulder. Suddenly, something massive—described later as a roughly 15‑foot shark—charged at him. The animal’s powerful jaws clamped around his leg, yanking him down in a flash of steel‑gray flesh.

Ridgeway’s companions shouted his name, but the ocean swallowed the sound. After about half a minute of frantic searching, the water turned eerily calm. The group called the coast guard, who arrived within minutes and began a coordinated sweep of the area.

Two hours later, divers recovered Ridgeway’s body, confirming the worst‑case scenario. Officials from the local marine authority suspect the culprit was a large tiger or bull shark—species known for their size and aggression, especially when provoked or confused.

This tragedy is the third fatal shark attack reported in the region since early May, joining the recent deaths of a surfer in Durban and a recreational diver off the Sunshine Coast. The string of incidents has reignited debate over public safety measures, such as increased shark‑spotting drones and temporary beach closures during peak seasons.

While authorities urge caution, they also stress that attacks remain exceedingly rare. “Sharks are an essential part of the marine ecosystem,” said marine biologist Dr. Lila Khan. “Our goal is to coexist responsibly, not to vilify these creatures.”

For now, the fishing community is left reeling, mourning a colleague who loved the ocean as much as he feared its hidden dangers. As families and friends gather to remember Ridgeway, the conversation about safety, education, and respect for the sea continues to evolve.