Dad witnesses teen son being fatally mauled by shark

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By James Kay

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A teenager tragically lost his life after being attacked by a shark as his helpless dad watched the horrific ordeal occur.

Khai Cowley, a 15-year-old talented young surfer lost his life in the horrifying shark attack while enjoying the waves at Ethel Beach, located approximately 160 kilometers west of Adelaide on the Yorke Peninsula.

South Australia Police were alerted to the attack around 1:30PM local time, responding swiftly to the distressing situation.

Despite the immediate response, medics on the scene confirmed the tragic outcome, stating that the young surfer had succumbed to the injuries inflicted by the shark.

Eyewitnesses at Ethel Beach shared harrowing details of the incident with the Adelaide Advertiser. According to a bystander, the teen and his father were enjoying a surfing session when the predator struck, snatching the boy's leg.

"A local guy rushed out, grabbed his board, and paddled towards them," the witness recounted. "The shark circled as the man pulled the boy out of the water. There was a significant amount of blood. He managed to bring him to shore, but sadly, it seemed too late."

Speaking to 9News, surfer Luke Winter said: "I don't know what to make of it. I was pretty rattled last night; it's too close to home, really."

The recently awarded "outstanding grom" by the Southern Adelaide Surf Club, Khai, belonged to a surfing legacy, being the third generation of his family to be a member.

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Khai's death marks the third surfer lost to a shark attack in under a year in Southern Australia. Credit: Mark Chivers/Getty

The Seaview Road Board Riders, profoundly affected by his untimely death, expressed their disbelief in a statement, remembering Khai as a standout figure who brought joy to younger surfers.

"Khai was a standout. He helped the little groms, made their trainings fun, and they all looked up to him," the statement read. "You will live on in our hearts and memories, once a Roader, always a Roader. We will all miss you so much and will keep shredding for you."

Ethel Beach, known for its challenging waves, especially Ethel's Ledge, is considered one of the best spots in the state on a good surf day.

"It wasn't very good yesterday," shared local Sean Hanna. "It was basically white water surf, but his love was such that he wanted to be part of that."

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A fundraiser has been set up in the wake of Khai's death. Credit: GoFundMe

Understanding this profound love, the surfing community has rallied around Khai's family, offering support. A fundraiser launched after the tragedy quickly surpassed its target, reflecting the widespread compassion and grief.

Khai's passing marks the third surfer lost to a shark attack off South Australia in less than a year.

Featured image credit: Ken Kiefer 2/Getty