What was supposed to be a fishing night among friends turned into a life-or-death scare for Shawn Meuse, a fisherman who was bitten by a shark while posing for a photo in Boca Grande, Florida.
The incident occurred on Saturday night when Meuse and his companions caught a nearly two-meter-long lemon shark. After removing the hook and preparing to release it, the animal suddenly turned and bit him on the leg.
“We had just removed the hook from its mouth. We were about to release it, but the shark turned and bit me,” the fisherman told Wink News.
The bite was so severe that those present had to improvise a tourniquet while calling for help to 911. Firefighters from Boca Grande arrived at the scene and transported him by helicopter to Gulf Coast Medical Center in Fort Myers.
The meteorologist Matt Devitt shared the video of the attack on social media, warning that the images may be disturbing. “Shark bites Florida man on the leg after he was reeling it in while fishing in Boca Grande over the weekend”. The injury was severe enough for him to be taken to the hospital, he wrote.
Despite the danger, Meuse was surprisingly optimistic from the hospital.
“I would go back today if I could leave the hospital. It's unfortunate, but it's something that happens when one leaves; sometimes it happens. Luckily, it only took a little, not much. So, you know, I’m one of the lucky ones. And, you know, I’m a victim of a shark bite. Many good stories now,” he said with a laugh.
He even left a message for the animal that attacked him: "Until next time."
An area with a history
The fire chief C.W. Blosser reminded that the presence of sharks in Boca Grande increases during the seasonal run of the mullet and urged caution to fishermen and swimmers. “I have never seen anyone, specifically while fishing for sharks, get bitten. One must be careful when interacting with Mother Nature,” he warned.
The case of Meuse is not an isolated incident. Just two months ago, a nine-year-old girl was attacked by a shark while swimming in the same area. The attack this weekend is the third recorded since Blosser took over as chief 16 years ago, notes the .
Blosser emphasized that in the case of a bite, the most important thing is to distance yourself from the animal, apply pressure to the wound, and call 911 immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shark Attacks in Florida
What happened to the fisherman bitten by a shark in Boca Grande?
Shawn Meuse was bitten on the leg by a bull shark while posing for a photo during a fishing night in Boca Grande, Florida. The attack occurred after he and his companions removed the hook from the caught shark. Meuse was airlifted to the hospital, where he appeared optimistic and grateful to have survived the attack.
Why does Boca Grande have a history of shark attacks?
The presence of sharks in Boca Grande increases during the snook season, as these fish attract sharks. Fire Chief C.W. Blosser has warned fishermen and swimmers about the potential risk, as there have been several incidents in the area, although they are not very common.
What are the recommendations to avoid shark attacks in Florida?
To minimize the risk of shark attacks, it is recommended to avoid murky water, not to surf alone, and to stay alert. Experts suggest not splashing or panicking, as sharks can become confused and attack accidentally. Additionally, it is helpful to know that firmly pushing a shark on its nose can deter it.
How does the number of shark attacks affect tourism in Florida?
Frequent shark attacks, especially in areas like New Smyrna Beach, known as the “shark bite capital of the world,” can cause concern among tourists. However, local authorities and experts are working to educate the public about precautions and safety measures to keep visitors informed and safe.
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