British Tourist Survives Bull Shark Attack in Tobago; Beaches Closed in Response

On the morning of Friday, April 26, a 64-year-old British tourist, Peter Smith, was the victim of a shark attack while swimming in waist-deep water near the Starfish Resort in Courland Bay, a popular tourist destination in Tobago. The attack, which occurred just 30 feet from the shore, has shocked the local authorities and prompted immediate action.

According to the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) Chief Secretary Farley Augustine, the bull shark responsible for the attack was approximately 8 to 10 feet long and 2 feet wide. The victim suffered severe injuries, with his left hand severed from the elbow down, his left thigh also severed, and lacerations to his stomach. Photos from the Chief Secretary's office showed graphic images of the extent of the injuries sustained by Peter Smith.

Government Response

Following the shocking incident, the government of Trinidad and Tobago took swift action by closing seven beaches and a marine park as a precautionary measure. The seriousness of the situation has been underscored by the fact that the victim was hospitalized in an intensive care unit after the attack.

Shark attacks, while rare, can have severe consequences. According to the Florida-based International Shark Attack File, there were 69 unprovoked attacks and 22 provoked bites worldwide last year, resulting in 14 fatalities. This serves as a reminder of the potential danger posed by these predators, even in popular tourist destinations.

Chief Secretary Farley Augustine has been actively coordinating efforts with the British High Commissioner, the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard, and other relevant agencies to closely monitor the area. Drone reconnaissance/surveillance, Coast Guard surveillance, and combing of the area by the Department of Fisheries are being conducted to ensure the safety of residents and tourists alike.