A 19-year-old woman was killed by a large white shark after being pulled into the sea by a rift in New Zealand – and her family member later waved into the water to challenge the animal ‘defiantly’. , according to reports.
Paramedics could not save Australian native Kaelah Marlow, 19, after she was attacked on Waihi Beach in New Zealand Bay around 5pm on Thursday, reports The Sun.
Witness Tadhg Stopford said a helicopter landed on the beach, where Marlow received CPR for several minutes.
“A powerful CPR was applied and a group of responders surrounded the victim,” he told the New Zealand Herald.
After the life-saving efforts failed, a Marlow family member wandered into the ocean, Stopford said.
“The man resurrected himself and marched 100 meters into the sea,” he said. ‘His entry into the sea was a challenge for the shark that stole the life of his beloved. He waved defiantly deep in the sea and stayed there for a few minutes. ‘
Stopford added: “With my kids around me, I felt his loss,” he added.
Amanda Gould, who was in the water at the time of the attack, said Marlow was pulled out by a torrent that separated her from a group of friends.
“We were in the water at the same time as the girl and her friends,” she told local news agency Stuff.
“They were about five yards ahead of us, but they kept coming out further,” Gould said. “She was separated from all her friends and was pulled really far away, beyond the surfers.”
Gould said she saw Marlow start struggling.
“No one saw her wave, but I heard a scream,” she said. “I did not see any blood … she was alive and when they came ashore. They immediately started CPR. ”
Gould added: ‘It was shocking, surreal, and we were all a little scared. It keeps playing in my mind. ”
Police said Friday the death would be referred to the coroner’s office.
“The police express our deepest sympathy to Kaelah’s family and loved ones during this very difficult time,” police told news.com.au.
“We appreciate that her death was extremely traumatic for those who were on Waihi Beach yesterday, and we provide victim support services to anyone in need.”
According to The West Australian, Marlow moved to New Zealand five years ago with her parents, Robert and Michelle, and 17-year-old sister Georgia.