French man killed by shark while on honeymoon

REUNION ISLANDA French honeymooner has been killed by a shark while his new wife lay on the beach nearby, authorities said.

The man, 36, was attacked Wednesday while surfing just off the beach of Brisants de Saint-Gilles on the French Indian Ocean island of Reunion, reports Agence France Presse.

The shark reportedly charged at the man twice, biting him on the arms and thigh, before a nearby swimmer raised the alarm, alerting lifeguards who dragged him to the shore.

The man had lost a substantial amount of blood and was in cardiac and respiratory arrest. Lifeguards were unable to revive him.

His wife was on the beach when the attack happened and is being treated for shock, according to authorities.

Sky News says reports in the French media identified the couple as coming from Morteau, in eastern France.

The deadly shark attack was the first this year on the French island, which has a history of similar incidents. Three people have been killed by sharks in the past two years and another attack causing serious injury happened last summer.

The beach where the latest attack occurred has reportedly been re-opened. Authorities have banned swimming and other water activities until further notice.