Florida Teenager Bitten by Shark During Lifeguard Training Camp in Volusia County

A teenager participating in a lifeguard training camp in Florida was bitten by a shark on Monday morning. The incident took place near the Ponce Inlet lifeguard tower, just before noon, as the 14-year-old boy was practicing water entries.

Details of the Incident

Reports indicate that the teenager landed on a 4 to 5-foot-long blacktip shark during his water entry practice. Fortunately, although the boy sustained injuries, they were not life-threatening. He was promptly taken by his parents to receive stitches for his wounds.

Recent Shark Incidents

This attack follows two separate shark bite incidents in New Smyrna Beach just days prior. A 26-year-old man was bitten while floating in an innertube, and a 21-year-old man was bitten while playing football in shallow water.

Shark Activity in Florida

Authorities have warned swimmers about the heightened shark activity in Florida's waters. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has highlighted that shark activity in Florida waters typically peaks between April and October, emphasizing the need for caution during this period.

Statistics on Shark Attacks

Shark attacks are considered rare occurrences. In 2023, there were 69 confirmed shark attacks worldwide, surpassing the previous five-year average of 63 attacks. Alarmingly, almost half of these attacks occurred in Florida, with Volusia County being labeled as the "shark bite capital of the world."

Recent Fatalities because of shark attack

Last month, the surfing community mourned the loss of pro surfer Tamayo Perry, who tragically succumbed to injuries sustained in a shark attack off the island of Oahu in Hawaii.