Nico Antic, 12-year-old boy Mauled By Bull Shark expected to survive?

Due to his severe injuries, the family of the 12-year-old boy who was mauled by a suspected bull shark while leaping off rocks into Sydney Harbour has publicly expressed their fear that he may not survive the coma.

Sophie Antic, his sister, disclosed last week that although he had emergency surgery that evening, he has not improved.

The incident at Nielsen Park in Vaucluse, close to Shark Beach, on Sunday afternoon, January 18, 2026, left Nico Antic with severe leg injuries. After the attack at 4:20 p.m., his pals bravely hauled him out of murky waters, and water police administered first aid before paramedics hurried him to Sydney Children's Hospital.

The attack seriously damaged both of his legs, and he only made it out alive when one of his five buddies leaped in and pulled him onto the rocks as the predator swam close by.

Despite continuous efforts to keep him alive, his family is preparing for the worst case scenario.

Over $130,000 AUD has been received through a GoFundMe campaign started by family friend Victor Piñeiro to pay for the Antic family's medical, funeral, and related costs. Piñeiro stated, "Despite all efforts, this heartbreaking event has led to the worst possible outcome," highlighting Nico's lively personality as a cherished soccer player.

Nico is a happy youngster who "never fails to smile" and is adored by many, according to the family. Money will directly support the bereaved family members through this difficult time.

Due to the warm temperatures and post-storm runoff that attracted bull sharks closer to the coast, the incident set off a series of shark attacks around New South Wales, with three additional victims in 48 hours. More than 20 beaches were closed, and swimmers were advised to stay away from dark regions.

More details will be made public as soon as they are confirmed.