Esperance shark attack victim identified as Singleton teenager Laeticia Brouwer

Tuesday, 18 April 2017 12:08

Laeticia Brouwer died after she was attacked by a shark off Esperance. PIC: Supplied

A 17-year-old girl who was fatally mauled by a shark off Esperance has been identified as Singleton teenager Laeticia Brouwer.

Laeticia was surfing with her father at Kelp Beds, near Wylie Bay when she was attacked about 4pm on Monday.

Esperance officer in charge Ben Jeffes said Laeticia's father brought her to shore while her family members, who witnessed the attack, called emergency services.

“He tried everything he could to help his daughter, but sadly he wasn't able to save her,” he said.

“As you can imagine, the family are very shocked. It’s a traumatic experience, it must be horrendous."

Laeticia's uncle Steve Evans read a statement to the media on behalf of the family.

"We are terribly heartbroken and saddened by this tragic accident," he said.

"We can take comfort knowing that Laeticia died doing something she loved...the ocean was her and her family's passion."

Wylie Bay Beach will remain closed until further notice.

Department of Fisheries regional manager south Russell Adams said the shark which attacked Laeticia was most likely a Great White.

The State Government has confirmed no drum lines will be deployed to catch the shark responsible.

#NEWSFLASH 17-year-old Laeticia Brouwer announced as victim of yesterday's fatal shark attack - https://t.co/kjPHQLMo8x #7News pic.twitter.com/Wx29AkZQRN
— 7 News Perth (@7NewsPerth) April 18, 2017