A British tourist is in intensive care after being mauled by a bull shark while swimming in waist-deep water off the coast of Tobago. Peter Smith, 64, a retired IT worker from Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, was attacked near Turtle Beach at around 9am local time on Friday.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing an 8 to 10-foot bull shark, a species known for its aggressive tendencies and preference for shallow waters. Fellow holidaymaker Orion Jakerov said the victims were not out of their depth and were lounging when the shark struck without warning.
Mr Smith, who lost several fingers in the attack, remains in a stable condition at Scarborough General Hospital. His wife Joanna, 62, an NHS worker, was staying with him at the nearby Starfish Resort. A receptionist confirmed the couple were guests and described the atmosphere as traumatic, with the beach and pool closed.
Local authorities have closed seven beaches and banned reef tours and scuba diving as a precaution. Chief Secretary Farley Augustine stated that drone reconnaissance and coast guard surveillance are underway to ensure safety. Shark attacks in Trinidad and Tobago are rare, with only two recorded in the past 20 years.
