Woman Killed in Shark Attack While Paddle Boarding in the Bahamas

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
04/12/2023 21h28

In a tragic incident, a woman from Boston lost her life after being attacked by a shark while paddle boarding with a family member in the Bahamas. The incident occurred on Monday at a resort located about three-quarters of a mile away from the shore. Royal Bahamas Police Force Spokesperson, Sergeant Desiree Ferguson, confirmed that the victim was bitten by the shark during the paddle boarding session.

The attack was witnessed by a vigilant lifeguard who promptly responded and went out in a boat to rescue the pair. However, emergency responders declared the victim dead after determining that she showed no vital signs. The identity of the victim has not been disclosed at this time.

Following the incident, CBS News has reached out to the Royal Bahamas Police Force and is awaiting further information. Eyewitnesses from the United States, who claimed to have seen the aftermath of the attack, have also been contacted by CBS News for their account of the incident.

This tragic incident comes just a day after another fatal shark attack in Mexico, where a 26-year-old woman lost her life while swimming with her young daughter. While shark attacks are relatively uncommon in the Bahamas, there have been several reported in recent months.

Last month, a 47-year-old German woman went missing during a diving trip off West End, Grand Bahama, after an encounter with a shark was reported. In June, a woman from Iowa suffered a shark attack while scuba diving in the Bahamas, resulting in the amputation of her leg.

In September 2022, a tourist from Pennsylvania was killed by a shark while snorkeling in the Bahamas. The 58-year-old woman was participating in an excursion near Green Cay when she was attacked by a bull shark. Despite being transported to a local hospital, she could not be saved.

The Bahamas is known for its diverse shark population, with over 50 species, including tiger, hammerhead, and Caribbean reef sharks, found along the East Coast and in the Caribbean Sea, according to NOAA.

The International Shark Attack File reported a total of 108 alleged shark-human interactions worldwide in 2022. The United States had the highest number of confirmed unprovoked attacks with 41, with Florida being the state with the most incidents at 16.

These incidents serve as a reminder of the potential dangers faced by individuals engaging in water activities in shark-populated areas. Authorities and beachgoers continue to be vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of those enjoying coastal waters.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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