Police search for attacker after surfer fatally stabbed on Coffs Harbor’s Park Beach

Police are searching an area around a popular beach on the state’s north coast after a surfer died stabbed moments after emerging from the water.

Chief Inspector Guy Flaherty said the 22-year-old man was found with multiple stab wounds at Park Beach Reserve in Coffs Harbor at 6.50am.

“We believe he recently came out of the surf and was wearing a black wetsuit at the time,” he said.

“The 22-year-old has been found with significant stab wounds.”

The man was taken to hospital, but police confirmed he had died and are now carrying out a homicide investigation.

“Our search in the car park and on the promenade around Coffs Harbor beach will continue for some time.”

Police investigators formed Strike Force Koringaroo to investigate the incident and are unsure whether the attacker and victim knew each other.

A crime scene has been established in a car park next to the Coffs Harbor Surf Lifeserved Club.

Surf community in ‘shock’

Coffs Harbor Surf Lifeserved Club chief operating officer Craig Peart said the surfing community would be shocked by the incident.

“It’s shocking to see that happening outside in the parking lot, outside the surf club,” he said.

“There are surf lifesavers who come one morning and grab boards and go out to surf or use the gym facilities.

“There were a few chefs who came before the club opened at 7 a.m. to prepare breakfast,” he said.

“They need to give statements to the police.”

Peart said the club would remain closed for the day while the police investigation continues.

Police are asking anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.