A tourist was left with severe bite wounds on his head and face after a 10-foot sand tiger shark attacked him just seconds into an underwater aquarium experience at Xiangjiang Ocean Kingdom in Changsha, China.
Attack Details
The victim, identified as Mr. Bao, entered the water wearing a diving suit after staff reportedly assured visitors that the activity was safe enough for children to participate. However, within moments, the shark bit him on the head and the right side of his face, causing seven puncture wounds approximately two centimeters deep.
Emergency Response
Workers quickly pulled the bleeding guest from the tank and transferred him to a nearby hospital for complex wound reconstruction. Hospital records listed multiple animal bites, including a right temporal scalp avulsion and right facial skin laceration and contusion.
Incident Context
The attack occurred on 15 May during the 'Blue Hole Adventure' project at the aquarium. Mr. Bao is currently negotiating a compensation package with the park. While the park has covered his medical costs, the initial compensation offer of £2,198 (CNY 20,000) was deemed insufficient by Mr. Bao, as it does not cover his lost wages.
Park Response
On 15 June, a park spokesperson confirmed that representatives are in communication with Mr. Bao and that the affected project has been suspended. The shark has been removed from the area. No other injuries were reported.
Safety Concerns
Mr. Bao shared his account via a short video, emphasizing the sudden nature of the attack despite the guided setting. The incident has sparked renewed discussion about safety protocols in interactive aquarium experiences, where visitors can enter shark enclosures under supervision.
