Family pays tribute to shark victim
The aunt of 17-year-old Jay Muscat, who was killed by a shark near Albany, has paid tribute to a spirited young man who loved the ocean.
“We are all devastated over the sudden tragic passing of Jay. He was a spirited young man who loved the ocean,” she said in a statement on behalf of Jay’s parents Mark and Sheryl Muscat.
“Jay would take any chance to go fishing, diving or swimming.
“He loved Hawthorn as his Dad does and that was evident as Jay's Hawthorn memorabilia was the most worn items in his wardrobe.
“Jay loved life to the full and was most happy fishing and diving. He loved growing up in Albany and had just completed year 12.
“He was enjoying his new found freedom of the summer break with friends before finding a job.
“From a very early age it was obvious that fishing was his passion and was always going to be a huge part of his life, we can take some comfort in knowing Jay passed doing something he loved.
“As a family we are so proud of Jay a loving son, brother, grandson, nephew and friend to all. We would like to thank everyone for their heartfelt support and kind words, as our family grieves.”
Jay was spearfishing with a friend at Three Stripes near Cheynes Beach east of Albany on Monday when he was attacked and killed by what was believed to have been a great white shark.
His death has stunned the Albany community in which he lived and reignited the debate about whether sharks should be culled to protect human life.
