Heartbreaking tributes emerge as diver torn to death by 13ft great white shark in horror attack
The wife of a diver who died after being attacked by a great white shark in front of his friends has said her heart is 'irrevocably broken'.
Steven 'Mattas' Mattaboni, 38, had been spearfishing with a friend at Horseshoe Reef, which is a popular Australian spot, near Perth, Western Australia.
Although Mattaboni was rushed to hospital, he sadly passed away from his injuries.
9 News Perth reported that Mattaboni had been bitten on both lower legs in front of his friends, who had taken a boat to the location to spearfish together.
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"His friends have actually witnessed the horrific event," Sergeant Michael Wear said.
"The victim was on the surface at the time, about 20 metres [65ft] away from the vessel," Wear said, adding: "Certainly quite horrific scenes for all involved and all emergency services that were there did a fantastic job.”
Of the attack, a police spokesperson added: "Sadly the man was unable to be revived."
They said: "About 9.55am on Saturday 16 May 2026, emergency services were advised of a possible shark attack off the coast of Rottnest Island.
"A 38-year-old man was in the water at Horseshoe Reef when he was believed to have been bitten by a shark. The man was conveyed by vessel to shore, where he was met by SJA WA paramedics."
Tributes have since been pouring in for Mattaboni, with his wife Shirlene describing her husband as a doting dad to their children - two daughters aged two and four months.
She wrote, as per The Sun: “Our hearts are irrevocably broken by the loss of Steven, known affectionately to his mates as ‘Mattas’.
“An avid fisherman and spearfisherman, who lived and breathed the ocean, he was always in tune with the sea.
“He was fiercely loyal, endlessly generous, and the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back.
“The world has lost a truly one-of-a-kind gentleman, and our daughters have lost an incredible father far too soon.”
Meanwhile, Kingsley Football Club - where Mattaboni played - has also paid tribute, writing: “Mattas was one of the most genuine people you could meet.
“He had a smile and presence that could light up a room, and he will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
“Our thoughts and love are with his family and friends during this incredibly difficult time, especially his wife Shirlene and their two young daughters.”
Following the attack, beachgoers have been urged to be alert and report any sightings.
Topics: World News, Australia, Shark Attacks, News
Lucy Devine