A shark attack off the Charleston coast on Thursday evening left a 65-year-old man injured, as reported by the Coast Guard Sector Charleston. The incident took place approximately 20 miles offshore, while the man was spearfishing from a 28-foot boat.
The quick thinking and actions of a fellow passenger on the boat were instrumental in saving the man’s life. The passenger swiftly applied a tourniquet to halt the bleeding until the Coast Guard arrived at the scene. The Charleston Harbor Marine Police also responded to the emergency, assessing the man’s injuries and confirming that the bleeding had been successfully controlled.
To expedite the victim’s access to medical care, the police directed the boat towards Charleston Harbor. Upon reaching Tad Street, adjacent to Coast Guard Station Charleston, the man was met by EMS personnel. He was then transported to the Medical University of South Carolina for further medical attention. As of Friday night, the man’s current health status remains undisclosed.
Shark attacks are relatively uncommon in the Charleston area, but they do occur occasionally. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that can lurk beneath the ocean’s surface. Despite the popularity of Charleston’s beaches for various recreational activities, it is crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings.
The Coast Guard has yet to disclose the specific species of shark involved in the attack. However, the incident underscores the resilience of those involved and the prompt response of the Coast Guard and local authorities.