The 14-year-old boy was suddenly caught in the jaws of the beast who left him with a life-threatening bite wound to the chest.
His brave pals pulled him from the water shortly after 6:20pm on Saturday. The young boy suffered significant blood loss and life-threatening injuries to his abdomen and internal organs, reports ABC. The group of teenagers were out on Cook Esplanade island in Australia when the victim was attacked shortly after he entered the water.
Torres Shire Council Mayor Elsie Seriat said the boys managed to rescue their friend by dragging him out of the water. The news comes after a British tourist recounts terrifying shark attack in Jamaica: ‘I thought I was going to die’.
Rushed to hospital for urgent surgery
The teen was rushed to the nearby Thursday Island Hospital by the Queensland Ambulance Service.
He was later airlifted to Townsville University Hospital in North Queensland for “urgent surgery”, the council said.
Mayor Seriat said in a statement: “This incident is very unfortunate, and our hopes and prayers go out to the boy and his family at this difficult time.
“Public safety is of paramount importance for the Council, and we strongly encourage everyone to be mindful and aware of the dangers in our surrounding waters and to always use good judgment.
Community in shock over attack
“Our small community feels this deeply.
“We know many people are thinking of the young boy, his friends and their families.
“Please continue to keep them in your hearts and prayers.”
Authorities are yet to say what type of shark they believe was behind the attack.
British swimmer survives double shark attack
It comes as a British swimmer revealed he survived a double shark attack while attempting a marathon swimming challenge.
Christopher Murray, 50, was swimming across the Catalina Channel off the coast of Los Angeles when he was mauled by two great whites.
The first beast lunged at the athlete’s hand mid-swim – sinking its sharp teeth into his skin.
Seconds later, he felt another set of gnashers clamp down on his right foot.
Despite a brush with death, Christopher revealed he felt no pain and was actually more frustrated he had to cut his marathon swim short.