Woman Killed in Shark Attack in the Bahamas
A 44-year-old American tourist was killed in a shark attack while paddleboarding near a resort in the Bahamas on Monday.
The woman, who has not been identified, was paddleboarding with a male relative about three-quarters of a mile offshore from the Sandals Emerald Bay resort on Great Exuma Island when she was attacked.
What We Know
Witnesses told police that the woman was screaming for help when they saw her being dragged underwater by the shark. The male relative was able to paddle to safety.
Lifeguards from the resort rushed to the scene and were able to pull the woman from the water, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.
What Happens Next
The Bahamas government has issued a warning to swimmers and boaters in the area to be aware of the increased risk of shark attacks.
The attack is the first fatal shark attack in the Bahamas since 2018.
Safety Tips
The Bahamas government has issued the following safety tips to swimmers and boaters:
- Swim in groups.
- Avoid swimming in areas where sharks are known to be present.
- Do not swim at night or in murky water.
- Do not wear jewelry that could attract sharks.
- Be aware of your surroundings and watch for sharks.
If you see a shark, do not panic. Stay calm and slowly back away from the shark. If the shark approaches, make yourself appear as large as possible and splash water in its face.