Sydney. A shark fatally mauled a man in his 50s at a beach near Sydney on Saturday, prompting authorities to close nearby beaches and deploy drones in search of the predator.

Emergency crews were called to Long Reef Beach shortly after 10 a.m. following reports that a man had suffered critical injuries. He was pulled from the surf and brought ashore, but died at the scene.

Police said the victim’s identity has not been confirmed. Two sections of a surfboard were recovered and are being examined.

Beaches in the area remain closed as police work with wildlife experts to determine the shark species involved.

Witnesses said two fellow surfers helped bring the victim ashore, where distraught family members rushed to the scene.

Local surfer Bill Sakula, who was preparing to leave after a morning session, said the incident would deeply affect the community.

"It's going to send shockwaves through the community," he told reporters. "Everyone is going to be a little bit nervous for a while."

Surf Life Saving NSW deployed drones to monitor for further shark activity. "Our deepest condolences go to the family of the man involved in this terrible tragedy," said Steve Pearce, the group’s chief executive. He urged swimmers to stay out of the water in the area.

The attack is believed to be the first in New South Wales this year. Sydney’s last fatal shark attack occurred in February 2022, the city’s first since 1963.

Shark nets were reinstalled on Monday at 51 beaches between Newcastle and Wollongong as part of a seasonal safety program.

Add as a preferred source on Google +