An 18-year-old man has died following a shark attack at Campbells Beach near Coffs Harbour on the New South Wales Mid North Coast. Emergency services were called to the beach early on Saturday, 12 September 2026, after the young man was seriously injured while in the water.

Authorities said the victim suffered severe injuries to his legs in the attack. Despite the emergency response, the young man died at the scene. The incident has prompted renewed concern about beach safety along the Coffs Coast, particularly at popular coastal locations where swimmers, surfers and other ocean users regularly enter the water.

Campbells Beach is located north of Coffs Harbour and is part of a coastline known for its beaches, surfing conditions and marine environment. The attack occurred during the early hours of Saturday, with emergency crews attending after the incident was reported. Details surrounding exactly what the man was doing in the water at the time of the attack have not all been publicly confirmed.

The fatal incident is likely to lead to heightened attention around local beach conditions and shark activity. Beaches in the Coffs Harbour region attract residents and visitors throughout the year, making awareness of local conditions an important part of coastal safety.

Shark encounters remain uncommon, but fatal attacks can have a significant impact on local communities, particularly when they occur at beaches used regularly by families, swimmers and surfers. Authorities generally encourage beachgoers to follow warnings, observe local signage and remain alert to changing ocean conditions.

The death has also highlighted the importance of rapid emergency responses following serious incidents in the water. Severe injuries caused by shark attacks can require immediate medical intervention, and emergency services play a critical role in providing first aid and attempting to stabilise victims.

The incident is particularly significant for Coffs Harbour because the region has experienced previous serious shark attacks. The latest death is expected to renew discussion about shark awareness, beach monitoring and safety measures along the Mid North Coast.

Authorities may provide further information about the circumstances of the attack, including any beach closures, shark sightings or safety warnings, as investigations and assessments continue.

For residents and visitors planning to visit Coffs Harbour beaches, checking current warnings and local beach conditions before entering the water is especially important following the incident.

The tragedy has left a local coastal community dealing with the loss of a young life. Further official information may become available as authorities continue responding to the incident and assessing conditions around Campbells Beach.