Seventh Shark Attack On NC Coast

WCCB Charlotte,

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OAKRACOKE ISLAND, NC —Β Some people heading to the North Carolina coast for the long holiday weekend are afraid to get in the water. Β It comes after another shark attack Wednesday. Β It’s the seventh this summer.

Wednesday’s attack happened on Ocracoke Island. Β There have been two in the Outer Banks, two on Oak Island, and one each at Ocean Isle Beach and Surf City. Β None have been deadly.

Wednesday’s victim is a 68-year-old man. Β He was swimming about 30 feet offshore. Β Officials say a lifeguard saw a seven-foot gray shark pull him underwater. Β The man has injuries to his rib cage, left hip, legs and hands. Β 

Experts blame the attacks on warmer water and an increase in prey. Β Beachgoers are keeping an eye out.

“It’s a little scary,” said one vacationer. Β “Don’t remember seeing so many shark attacks. Β It just seems they’re occurring quite often now.”
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There have been two shark attacks reported off the South Carolina coast: one at the Isle of Palms, the other at Hunting Island Beach. Β Experts say you are more likely to die from the flu than a shark attack.