Daniel Turpin named as diver killed in WA shark attack

Daniel Turpin named as diver killed in shark attack off Albany, WA Sun 7 Jun 2026 at 4:01pm The family of a 35-year-old man who died after being bitten by a shark off WA's southern coast yesterday has described his deep respect for the ocean while thanking those who came to his aid. Daniel Turpin had been spearfishing with family near Michaelmas Island, off the tourist town of Albany, when he was attacked about 11:20am local time. He was met by paramedics after being raced back to shore but could not be revived. In a statement, his family said he was "an adored husband, son, brother and uncle who had a lifelong love and deep respect for the ocean". "Our family is devastated by this tragic loss and we are still coming to terms with what has happened," they wrote. "Daniel brought enormous joy to the lives of those who knew and loved him, and he will be deeply missed. "We would like to thank the emergency services personnel and all those who have offered their support and compassion during this incredibly difficult time." Earlier, WA Fisheries Minister Jackie Jarvis offered her "heartfelt condolences" to Mr Turpin’s family and friends as well as first responders. But she said there was nothing to suggest increased shark activity off the state’s coast, despite two spear fishers being fatally attacked within three weeks. In mid-May, 38-year-old Steven Mattaboni was unable to be saved after being bitten off the coast of Rottnest Island, near Perth. Ms Jarvis described both deaths as a tragedy, but defended WA as having “one of the best shark hazard mitigation strategies in the world”. “There is certainly no data or information that suggests there is increased shark activity any different from other years,” she said. “I think Western Australian ocean users understand the risks. “Our job is to provide really good information, which we do, so that people can make informed decisions.” Ms Jarvis said there had been 10 shark interactions with humans so far this year, compared with 19 last year. Authorities said the state had tagged about 200 sharks, which can be detected by 38 monitoring network receivers along the coastline.