Brave Officer Saves Surfer With Dog Leash After Shark Attack

In an extraordinary act of heroism, an off-duty police officer in Australia saved a surfer’s life after a terrifying shark attack. The incident occurred off the coast of New South Wales, where 23-year-old surfer Kai McKenzie was attacked by a nearly 10-foot great white shark, according to the BBC.

McKenzie, despite losing his leg in the attack, managed to fight off the shark and make his way back to shore. The quick-thinking officer, who was walking his dog nearby, used the dog’s leash as a makeshift tourniquet to stop McKenzie’s bleeding. This immediate action was crucial in saving McKenzie’s life.

North South Wales first responder Kirran Mowbray praised the officer’s quick thinking, saying, “He used the lead off his dog as a tourniquet … and essentially saved his life until the paramedics got there.” Locals later found McKenzie’s severed leg on the beach, placed it on ice, and sent it to the hospital, where doctors are attempting to reattach it.

McKenzie had recently returned to surfing after recovering from a neck injury. In a recent social media post, he shared his excitement about being back in the water. Over $114,000 has been raised on a GoFundMe page to support his medical expenses and rehabilitation.

Described by his aunt as “an incredible surfer, skater, musician, videographer, and all-round legend,” McKenzie is currently in serious but stable condition. Mowbray noted that McKenzie remained calm and composed throughout the ordeal, demonstrating remarkable bravery.