British Man Critically Bitten by Bull Shark Off Tobago Coast, Nearby Beaches Closed for Investigation

A 64-year-old man from Britain is receiving critical care after being attacked by a shark just 10 meters offshore in Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago. According to Farley Chavez Augustine, Chief Secretary of Tobago, the victim was bitten by what appeared to be a bull shark on Friday morning local time. The man’s left thigh and arm from the elbow down were reportedly “severed,” while his stomach also suffered lacerations in the attack. Some fingers have been successfully reattached following surgery at Scarborough General Hospital, Augustine said during a press conference late on Friday night. Despite being sedated due to the significant pain caused by his injuries, doctors say that he is stable and doing well. The man was vacationing with his wife and friends in Tobago when the attack occurred; they had planned one final swim before leaving for the UK later that day but instead found themselves fighting off the shark as it attacked their companion who happened to have his back turned on them.
A witness interviewed by local broadcaster Trinidad and Tobago Television (TTT) reported seeing water sports manager Orion Jakerov battling with a “sho’gah’” or young bull shark measuring around eight to ten feet in length, which was later believed to be responsible for the attack. The victim had been waist-deep to shoulder-high in the water when he became aware of its presence but it is unclear whether any warning signs were present beforehand.
Following the incident, a number of nearby beaches have temporarily closed including Buccoo Reef Marine Park as authorities investigate further. The Tobago House of Assembly had also offered a $10,000 Trinidad and Tobago Dollar reward (around $1,470 USD) for capturing the shark but later withdrew this offer after reviewing expert advice regarding the risks involved in attempting to do so.
The British High Commissioner to Trinidad and Tobago has issued travel guidance relating to the attack on its website advising tourists to take extra care when swimming, surfing or snorkeling as there are heightened safety concerns in these areas until further notice due to increased shark activity being reported by local authorities.