A shark attack off the east coast of Australia has resulted in the death of a woman and serious injuries to a man. The incident occurred early Thursday morning at Kylies Beach in Crowdy Bay National Park, located about 224 miles north of Sydney. Emergency services responded to reports of the attack at approximately 6:30 a.m., according to police.

The victims, believed to be in their mid-20s and visiting from Switzerland, were swimming when the shark struck. A witness provided assistance before paramedics arrived, but the woman, estimated to be around 25 years old, died at the scene. The 26-year-old man sustained severe injuries and was airlifted to John Hunter Hospital, where he is reported to be in serious but stable condition.

Police Chief Inspector Timothy Bayly confirmed that the two individuals were known to each other and were swimming together at the time of the attack. He noted that details regarding the injuries and the circumstances surrounding the incident are still under investigation.

A bystander’s quick actions may have prevented further tragedy. Paramedic Josh Smyth praised the bystander for applying a makeshift tourniquet to the man's leg, stating, "It potentially saved his life and allowed New South Wales Ambulance paramedics to get to him and render first aid."

The beach and surrounding areas have been closed to swimmers indefinitely as authorities investigate the attack. The shark involved has been identified as a large bull shark, and five drumlines have been deployed in an effort to capture it. These drumlines are baited hooks suspended from floats, and similar measures have been taken in nearby areas to reduce shark populations.

Experts have noted that it is rare for a single shark to attack more than one person. Gavin Naylor, director of the University of Florida's shark research program, stated, "Individual shark attacks are rare. And shark attacks on two people by the same individual is not unheard of, but it's very rare."

This incident follows a recent fatal shark attack on a surfer off a Sydney beach in September. The Australian Shark Incident Database indicates that there have been over 1,280 shark incidents in Australia since 1791, with more than 250 resulting in fatalities. The Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that the victims were Swiss nationals and is in contact with local authorities to support their relatives.

As investigations continue, the local community is left in shock over the tragic event, which highlights the risks associated with swimming in areas known for shark activity.