A day at the beach took a terrifying turn for a 21-year-old Florida man this week after he was bitten by a shark while posing for photographs in the shallows.
The incident occurred on Wednesday around 1:45 p.m. at New Smyrna Beach, a location notorious for its frequent shark encounters and often dubbed the 'Shark Bite Capital of the World'.
According to Volusia County Beach Safety officials, the victim was in waist-deep water when the shark, believed to be a Blacktip, struck. He was bitten on the lower leg, suffering a significant but non-life-threatening injury.
"He was actually posing for pictures whenever the bite occurred," said Tammy Malphurs, a spokesperson for Volusia County Beach Safety. The unexpected attack serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of wildlife, even in seemingly calm waters.
Beach lifeguards and paramedics provided immediate first aid at the scene before the man was transported to a nearby hospital for further treatment. He is expected to make a full recovery.
This event marks the ninth confirmed shark bite in Volusia County in 2024, continuing the area's trend of recording the highest number of such incidents in the state. Officials have reiterated their safety advice for swimmers, urging caution especially during late summer and early autumn when shark activity is typically higher.
Beachgoers are advised to avoid swimming near schools of fish, where sharks often feed, and to refrain from wearing shiny jewellery that can resemble fish scales. Swimmers should also stay close to shore and always swim in groups.
