Man swims to safety after being attacked by shark off Hawaii’s Big Island

A 60-year-old man was attacked by a shark in Hawaii’s Anaehoomalu Bay on Sunday. The victim was swimming approximately 200 yards offshore when the shark attacked him at around 12:40 pm HST. The man was able to swim to a catamaran, whose crew assisted him out of the water. Officials reported the man’s injuries included bites to his left hand and the back of his leg. The victim was transported to North Hawaii Hospital, where his condition is unknown at this time.

Anaehoomalu Bay, also called A-Bay, is located on the west shore of the Big Island and is popular for recreational activities like snorkeling. Officials have not determined the size or species of the shark involved in the attack. However, the occurrence of shark attacks is rare. Worldwide, there were a total of 73 confirmed, unprovoked shark bites on people and 39 confirmed, provoked bites in 2021, according to the Florida Museum of Natural History’s International Shark Attack File.

When the shark attacked the victim, crew members aided and controlled the man’s bleeding until rescuers arrived at the scene. First responders transported the patient from the catamaran to the beach where HFD personnel were waiting. Although the man sustained severe injuries, he was able to swim to the catamaran, which provides insight into the quick thinking and preparedness of the crew to assist.

In Hawaii, shark attacks have occurred before. Marine experts from the University of Hawaii have attributed the attacks to a rise in ocean activity due to climate change. Consequently, the authorities encourage beachgoers to follow safety guidelines when entering Hawaiian waters. The guidelines include avoiding swimming near river mouths and staying away from murky water, especially during early morning and evening hours.



Source link