Boy, 13, killed by shark in Indian Ocean

A 13-year-old boy was killed while surfing off the coast of the island of Reunion in the Indian Ocean.

Officials say it happened Monday morning while Elio Canestri was in the water with seven other surfers when a shark bit him in the stomach and dragged him into the water as he prepared to mount a wave.

The Daily Mail reports the teen, who is considered a surfing champion, was bodyboarding 50 feet out in an area banned to swimmers due to the high risk of sharks.

Rescuers reached Elio and dragged him out of the ocean but he died from his wounds. Hundreds are now paying tribute online to the surfing star who grew up on that island.

Professional surfer Jeremy Flores posted on Instagram, "ANOTHER shark attack in Reunion island this morning. 13 years old Elio was one of our best up and coming surfer. Words can't describe how sad and angry i am. So young !!! Heart breaking News . RIP :("

Officials say this was the 16th shark attack off the island since 2011.

More from AOL.com:
The world's most and least religious countries
'Antiques Roadshow:' See the great story behind a rare Rolex
French Open prize money goes up to 28 million euros