Florida teen shark attack victim says no need to be afraid

This week, 14-year-old Dempsey Manhart, a lifeguard trainee, faced a rare incident when he was bitten by a shark during a training drill in Ponce Inlet, Florida. Despite the shocking event, he expressed his lack of fear and determination to continue with his training.

The attack occurred during a Junior Lifeguard Camp, where Manhart was bitten on the right calf by a 4 to 5 Black Tip shark, commonly found in the area. He described the encounter, stating, "I dove onto it, and I hit the shark. I hit it with my hands, and then I stood up, and it spun around and was like underneath my legs. And I think it bit me then when it was wrapped around my feet."

Manhart's Response

Manhart initially didn't realize he had encountered a shark, explaining, "When it came under my feet, I was like hitting it, and then it swam away. Then that's when I saw the shark." Despite needing 17 stitches and being unable to resume normal activity immediately, he expressed his excitement to return to lifeguard training. He firmly stated that he believes the incident was extremely rare and that there is no need to be scared as he plans to continue with his training.

Manhart drew inspiration from his father, who serves as a deputy, lifeguard, and EMT. He emphasized that the shark bite will not deter him from pursuing his passion for saving people in the future.

Statistical Insight

Volusia County, where the incident took place, has been labeled as the "shark capital of the world" according to a report from the Florida Museum of Natural History's International Shark Attack file. The county has recorded more than 350 shark attacks since 1882, including 16 incidents in 2023.

Despite the statistical data, Manhart's determination to overcome the incident and continue with his training serves as an inspiring example of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.