Shark attack in Australia: Surfer Kai McKenzie loses leg
4:03 PM EDT, July 24, 2024
In Australia, there was a shark attack. A 23-year-old surfer, Kai McKenzie, was injured. Although his life was saved, he lost his leg. The waves washed the severed limb ashore.
As reported by BBC, 23-year-old Kai McKenzie was surfing near Port Macquarie in New South Wales (Australia) when he was attacked by a 10-foot-long shark. It was later confirmed to be a great white shark.
Kai had a stroke of luck in his misfortune, as after the shark attack, he managed to swim to shore with the wave. On the beach, he was helped by an off-duty police officer who stopped the bleeding, showing great ingenuity.
He used his dog's leash as a tourniquet and basically saved his life (…) – said Kirran Mowbray from NSW Ambulance, quoted by BBC.
Soon after, the leg of the 23-year-old surfer reached the shore. The limb was packed in ice and transported to the hospital along with the injured 23-year-old.
The man lost his leg during the shark attack
Doctors describe Kai's condition as serious but stable. Initially, medics hoped they could save his leg, but it is currently unclear whether the operation was successful.
As reported by BBC, citing local media, the avid surfer had only recently returned to the water after a long break caused by a serious neck injury. Authorities emphasize that Kai showed remarkable resilience. Despite the severity of the situation, he remained calm.
An online fundraiser was organized to cover Kai's medical expenses. Over 100 thousand dollars have already been raised.
