A chilling shark attack at Hadera beach in northwest Israel claimed the life of Barak Tzach, a 45-year-old father of four. Graphic footage showed a shark swimming near beachgoers moments before the attack. Witnesses called emergency services, with one saying, “There’s someone here that a shark has bitten. He’s screaming, ‘Help!’”
Desperate Search and Tragic Confirmation
The attack happened on April 21, prompting a major search effort. Cmdr. Aryeh Doron stated: “We are on the second day of searches and are using every available resource.” On April 23, police confirmed the discovery and identification of human remains, officially confirming Tzach’s death.
Victim Was Snorkeling to Film Sharks
Tzach’s wife shared on Facebook that he entered the sea with snorkeling gear and a camera, intending to film sharks, not interact with them. “He didn’t go in to feed them or play with them,” she said. A fisherman called him back to shore, but the shark attacked before he reached safety.
Public Warning Issued After Attack
Authorities urged the public to avoid contact with sharks. The Israel Nature and Parks Authority reminded beachgoers: “Avoid approaching sharks, as they are protected animals.” Most sharks in the area, like dusky sharks, are not usually aggressive but can react unpredictably.