Swimmer dead after shark attack at Perth beach

- 12.14pm . First published at 3.29am

shares Share article Authorities have ordered a shark be destroyed after it killed a man in an attack close to shore at a popular Perth beach.

It was the second shark attack in Western Australia in days, with emergency services called to Sorrento Beach about 10.30am on Friday after reports of a swimmer in distress.

Emergency services remain on the scene this afternoon. 9News

9News understands two men were swimming about 15 metres from shore when one of them, aged in his 60s, was taken by a shark.

A great white shark about five metres long was spotted by aerial surveillance in the area, but it is unclear if it is the animal responsible for the attack.

The man’s friend witnessed the tragedy, as did dozens of onlookers on the beach.