For those still haunted by Jaws, this real-life encounter is a nightmare come true.
On April 3, 2014, off the coast of New South Wales, Australia, 63-year-old Christine Armstrong—a seasoned swimmer and longtime Tathra Surf Club member—was believed to have been killed and consumed by a 13-foot shark during a routine swim.
Christine had set off with her swim group but turned back early, saying she wasn’t feeling well. Moments later, swimmers saw a fin and birds circling. Assuming she had made it back safely, they returned to shore—only to realize she was gone.
The next day, her goggles, cap, and remains washed ashore. Her body was never found. Authorities believe she was taken almost instantly by a large shark, likely a great white.
“She wouldn’t have even known it happened,” said her husband Rob, who was swimming nearby.
The Tathra Surf Club paid tribute to Christine, remembering her as a joyful, dedicated member. Over a decade later, the tragedy still resonates, with a resurfaced video drawing renewed sympathy and sorrow online.