A devastating new update has emerged in the case of Nico Antic, the 12-year-old boy critically injured in a shark attack in Sydney Harbour, as a close family member broke down in tears while describing his condition.

Through visible anguish, the relative revealed that doctors have warned the family Nico may never regain consciousness — words that have sent shockwaves through the community and underscored the gravity of the situation.

From Hope to Heartbreak

Just days earlier, there had been cautious optimism.

After undergoing emergency surgery, Nico showed signs that suggested stabilization. Medical teams were hopeful — careful not to promise outcomes, but encouraged enough to allow the family a brief moment of relief.

That window closed suddenly.

According to those close to the family, doctors later identified a severe complication that dramatically altered Nico’s prognosis. The shift was abrupt and devastating, leaving loved ones struggling to process how quickly the situation had changed.

“We Were Not Prepared to Hear This”

A close family member, overwhelmed by emotion, shared that the words spoken by doctors were unbearable.

“He will never wake up again and…” the relative said before breaking down, unable to finish the sentence.

Hospital staff reportedly stepped in to support the family as the reality of the update set in. Nico’s mother, already exhausted from days at his bedside, fainted upon hearing the news and was treated by medical personnel.

What Doctors Have Said — and Haven’t

Hospital officials have not released detailed medical specifics, citing patient privacy and the sensitive nature of ongoing care.

What has been confirmed is that Nico remains in critical condition under intensive monitoring, with specialists continuing to assess neurological function and overall stability.

Medical experts note that in cases of extreme trauma — particularly those involving shark attacks — neurological outcomes can be uncertain, and complications may arise even after initially successful surgery.

Doctors emphasize that such assessments are based on the best information available at the time, and conditions can evolve.

A Family Living Through the Unthinkable

For Nico’s family, the emotional toll has been overwhelming.

The rapid shift from hope to despair has left them grappling with grief while still clinging to the smallest possibilities. Loved ones remain at the hospital, supported by extended family and friends, as they navigate decisions no parent should ever face.

Hospital counselors and support staff are reportedly assisting the family as they endure what one source described as “a living nightmare.”

Community Reaction: Shock, Silence, and Support

News of the update spread quickly, prompting an outpouring of support from across Sydney and beyond.

Messages of solidarity and prayers flooded social platforms, while community members expressed heartbreak for the family. Many described the situation as deeply personal, even for those who have never met Nico.

“It’s every parent’s worst fear,” one resident said. “You can’t imagine the pain.”

The Incident That Changed Everything

The shark attack occurred in Sydney Harbour, a location not typically associated with such incidents. Authorities responded rapidly, deploying emergency services and initiating safety protocols along nearby waters.

The rarity of the incident has added to the shock, prompting renewed discussions around marine safety and awareness.

Officials have reiterated that shark encounters remain extremely uncommon but acknowledge that when they occur, the consequences can be catastrophic.

Medical Experts Urge Caution in Interpreting Updates

Doctors unaffiliated with the case caution against interpreting early neurological assessments as final outcomes.

“In severe trauma cases, particularly involving oxygen deprivation or massive injury, prognoses can change,” one specialist explained. “However, families must also be prepared for difficult realities.”

They stress the importance of compassionate communication during such moments, recognizing the emotional weight carried by every word shared with families.

Privacy and Respect Requested

Authorities and hospital representatives have asked the public and media to respect the family’s privacy during this deeply painful time.

They emphasize that the focus should remain on Nico’s care and the family’s well-being, rather than speculation.

Waiting in the Darkest Hours

As Nico remains under intensive care, his family continues to wait — suspended between hope and grief.

There are no easy answers. No timelines. Only the steady hum of machines and the presence of doctors doing everything within their power.

For now, the words spoken through tears have come to define the moment:

“He may never wake up again.”

It is a sentence no family should ever have to hear — and one that has left an entire community holding its breath.