38-year-old Steven Mattaboni has been identified as the victim of a fatal shark attack off the west coast of Australia that took place over the weekend.
Mattaboni was spearfishing with three friends about half a mile offshore when tragedy struck. He was attacked and killed by a shark estimated to be around 13 feet long, according to news.com.au.
Police said Mattaboni suffered “horrific” injuries in the attack before his friends managed to pull him back into the boat, according to PEOPLE. The group did everything they could to save his life, performing CPR while waiting for emergency responders to arrive. Unfortunately, he could not be saved.
“The friends have witnessed the horrific event”
According to the BBC, WA Police Sergeant Michael Wear said the 38-year-old was close to his boat when the shark bit him.
“The friends have witnessed the horrific event,” he told local media, according to the BBC.
Their heroic efforts in that terribly difficult moment were later praised by police during a press conference.
“I want to acknowledge the diver’s friends who played a critical role in doing the best they could to bring [him] back to shore,” WA Police Minister Reece Whitby said, according to the ABC. “My heart and thoughts go out to the man’s family, friends and loved ones.”
Steven Mattaboni has been identified as the victim of a fatal shark attack
His family – including his wife, Shirene Mattaboni – is now grieving the unimaginable loss.
“Our hearts are irrevocably broken by the loss of Steven,” she said the day after the attack.
“An avid fisherman and spearfisherman, who lived and breathed the ocean, he was always in tune with the sea,” she continued, saying he “was fiercely loyal, endlessly generous, and the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back.”
He also leaves behind the couple’s two young daughters – one nearly 3 years old, and the other just 4 months old.
“The world has lost a truly one-of-a-kind gentleman, and our daughters have lost an incredible father far too soon,” Shirene said.
Loved ones have since launched a GoFundMe to support the family during this difficult time.
“Steven was truly one of a kind – a loving husband, devoted father, and an incredibly kind and genuine man who brought warmth and happiness to those around him,” the page reads. “Above all else, he absolutely adored his three girls and was the most amazing dad.”
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