'Catastrophic injuries': Swimmer killed in suspected Sydney shark attack

A swimmer has been killed in a suspected shark attack at a popular Sydney beach.

Emergency services responded to reports from the public that a swimmer had been attacked by a shark at Little Bay Beach near Malabar about 4.30pm today.

Rescue crews on jet skis and in boats found human remains in the water.

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Witnesses said they heard the swimmer yelling.

"(The person) was swimming and a shark came and attacked (them) vertically," Kris Linto, a witness, told 9News.

"We heard a yell and turned around it looked like a car had landed in the water, a big splash then the shark was chomping at the body and there was blood everywhere.

"It was really bad."

Mr Linto claimed he saw a 4.5-metre great white shark attack the swimmer, who is yet to be identified.

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NSW Ambulance Inspector Lucky Phrachanh said the swimmer could not be saved.

"Unfortunately, this person had suffered catastrophic injuries as a result of the attack and there was nothing paramedics could do when we arrived on scene," he said.

Police will liaise with the Department of Primary Industry to investigate the circumstances of the death.

A report will be prepared for the Coroner.

Nearby beaches closed after fatal attack

All Randwick City beaches – including Little Bay, Malabar, Maroubra, Coogee, Clovelly and La Perouse – will be closed for 24 hours after the attack.

Signage and barricades are being installed to warn swimmers and lifeguards will patrol beaches for signs of further shark activity.

Randwick Mayor Dylan Parker said the community was in shock.

"The coast is our community's backyard," Mr Parker said.

"Little Bay is normally such a calm, beautiful place enjoyed by families.

"To lose someone to a shark attack like this is chilling. We are all in shock.

"Our entire community's hearts go out to the family of the victim."

A non-fatal shark attack also occurred at Congwong Beach, further south in Botany Bay, in February 2018.

Source: 9News