WAILUKU, Hawaii — A surfer was severely injured by a shark on Friday while he was enjoying the waves off Waiehu Beach Park. According to reports, the 61-year-old man suffered a devastating injury when the shark bit him, resulting in the complete severance of his leg just below the knee. First responders arrived at the scene and attempted to manage his critical bleeding with tourniquets.
While being treated on the shore, the injured surfer remained conscious before he was rushed to Maui Memorial Medical Center in critical condition, as stated by local authorities. In response to the incident, officials quickly closed the beach park and issued warnings to the public, advising that individuals stay out of the water in the vicinity. A precautionary measure has been established, maintaining a water exclusion zone extending one mile in all directions from the attack site, which will remain in effect at least until noon on Saturday. This warning may be prolonged if any further shark sightings occur in the area.
To enhance safety, Maui fire and ocean safety teams utilized rescue watercraft and drones to monitor the waters. Additionally, state officials have placed shark warning signs throughout the region and helped to secure the surrounding area to keep swimmers and surfers safe. Details regarding the species of shark involved in the incident have not been disclosed.
This incident follows a tragic event in June, when Tamayo Perry, a well-known surfer, lost his life in a shark attack while surfing on Oahu’s North Shore. With the recent surge in shark encounters, the local community remains on high alert regarding water safety practices.