A teen in North Carolina is recovering from injuries sustained in a shark attack at North Topsail Beach. The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon when 14-year-old Blayne Brown was bitten by a shark while in the water. Witnesses at the scene reported hearing screams and commotion as they saw the shark near Beach Access No. 4. Brown, who was visiting from West Virginia, described the experience as terrifying, noting that he did not realize he had been bitten by a shark until after the attack. The shark bit him twice, once on the leg and again on the ankle.
Police Chief William Younginer arrived at the scene along with other officers in response to the emergency call. Fortunately, two police officers and an EMS officer were already on the scene from a previous unrelated distress call. Bystanders had quickly pulled Brown from the water and applied a towel to stop the bleeding. The officers then applied a tourniquet to Brown’s injuries before he was transported to Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune for treatment. Younginer praised the bystanders for their quick and appropriate actions in response to the situation.
Younginer noted that shark attacks are extremely rare in the area, with the last reported incident occurring in 2018. While incidents involving stingrays are more common, shark bites are not typically a concern in North Topsail Beach. He assured the public that there have been no other shark attacks in the area since Brown’s incident. The teenager is expected to be released from the hospital soon, having received treatment for his injuries. As the community reflects on the rare event, they are reminded of the importance of remaining vigilant and following safety protocols when at the beach.
The attack left many witnesses shaken, as they recalled the chaotic scene when the shark was spotted in the water. Chasity Keeter, who was present at the beach during the attack, described the frightening atmosphere as people yelled for others to get out of the water. The sudden appearance of the shark caught many beachgoers off guard, and Brown’s cries for help alerted those around him to the danger. Despite the trauma of the incident, Brown remained composed and appreciative of those who came to his aid during the attack.
The response from emergency personnel and bystanders highlighted the importance of quick action in emergency situations. The swift application of a tourniquet and the efforts to stop the bleeding were crucial in ensuring Brown received timely medical attention. The community’s response to the shark attack demonstrated a sense of unity and support for the young victim, showcasing the importance of remaining calm and collected during crises. As Brown continues his recovery, he serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength needed to overcome such traumatic events, and the importance of being prepared for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise.
As North Topsail Beach reflects on this rare incident, the community is reminded of the need to implement safety measures and remain vigilant while enjoying the ocean. While shark attacks are infrequent in the area, it is crucial for beachgoers to be aware of their surroundings and take appropriate precautions to ensure their safety. The incident serves as a wake-up call to the community, prompting a reevaluation of safety protocols and emergency response procedures. Through ongoing education and awareness, steps can be taken to minimize the risk of such incidents occurring in the future, ensuring that visitors can safely enjoy the beautiful beaches of North Carolina.
