An unsuspecting surfer is considered "fortunate" after surviving a gruesome shark attack earlier this month in northern California. Here's what we know so far.
The 30-year-old victim, whose name has yet to be released to the public, was accosted by a shark mid-morning on Sunday, October 3rd. He received a bite to the thigh while surfing off the northern coast of Bodega Bay in a region known as Sonoma Coast. The paramedics and local emergency services Bodega Bay Fire Protection rushed to the scene.
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And while little details were released to the public, the Division's Captain, David Bynum, provided some basic details about the incident. After being bitten, the unnamed surfer was transported via helicopter to a nearby medical facility by the California Highway Patrol. Thankfully, he was conscious at the time of his air transport, but few updates since have been provided.
According to the Los Angeles Times, shark attacks are far from common in California. In fact, under 80 have been reported since the 1950s. However, the difference between an injury and a casualty lies in the first crucial moments after the attack. And luckily, this surfer had a great deal of help to get him by. According to accounts, bystanders rushed to his aid and applied pressure to the bite-site by fastening surfboard leashes and later a proper tourniquet. And in Captain David Bynum's opinion, it was this help that made a world of difference.
"The tourniquet was crucial," he explained to NBC News. "That's what made the difference between a life-threatening injury and a stable patient." He continued, adding, "He's fortunate. He had a lot of help from the start." While we're waiting for more news about his recovery, other witnesses were able to fill in some details of the attack timeline. "I saw the dorsal fin of the shark. And then I saw the tail fin of the shark," local surfer Jared David recalled. "It definitely wasn't... like a quick attack. It was nice and slow."
According to multiple sources, shark season in the region carries on into the autumn months, so consider this man's tale your fair warning. And be sure to check back soon for more news from the animal kingdom.
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