A man participating in a group swim in Del Mar, California was attacked by a shark, resulting in injuries to his arm, hand, and torso. The 46-year-old swimmer was with a dozen other swimmers when the attack occurred around 9 a.m. He was rushed to a hospital in San Diego with injuries that are significant but not believed to be life-threatening. The attack took place about 100 yards from Del Mar’s lifeguard headquarters, prompting lifeguards to close a stretch of the beach to swimmers and surfers one mile north and south of the facility until the following morning.
City lifeguards in Del Mar have jurisdiction along 2.5 miles of coastline, and the closure of the beaches was intended to ensure the safety of beachgoers. Nearby beaches such as Torrey Pines State Beach remained open, while the popular surf spot, Blacks Beach, located more than 5 miles away, was unaffected by the incident. The attack occurred under relatively normal conditions for early June, with mild waves and cool water temperatures. The incident took place in the midst of “June gloom” weather in coastal San Diego County, as the area prepares for an influx of tourists during the summer season.
The type of shark involved in the attack was not immediately identified, and it is unclear what prompted the shark to engage with the swimmer. Data from the Florida Museum of Natural History’s International Shark Attack File shows that there were two unprovoked shark attacks in California last year, one of which was fatal. Florida leads the United States in unprovoked shark attacks, with 16 incidents recorded in 2020. However, San Diego County has had 20 unprovoked shark attacks since 1926, making it the county with the highest number of incidents in California.
Research published in the journal Frontiers of Marine Science suggests that juvenile white sharks tend to spend more time closer to shore during the spring and summer months, potentially influenced by factors such as water temperature. This behavior may explain why shark encounters are more common during certain times of the year. The incident in Del Mar serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with ocean activities and the importance of following safety protocols when swimming or surfing in areas known to have shark populations.
The shark attack in Del Mar underscores the need for vigilance when swimming in waters where sharks are known to be present. Lifeguards play a crucial role in monitoring beach activity and responding quickly to emergencies to ensure the safety of beachgoers. Visitors to coastal areas are urged to be aware of their surroundings and adhere to any beach closures or safety advisories issued by local authorities. Despite the rare occurrence of shark attacks, it is essential to take precautions and remain informed about potential risks when enjoying the ocean. Del Mar and other coastal communities will continue to prioritize the safety of beach attendees and work to prevent future incidents.
