Urgent Update: A surfer narrowly escaped a suspected great white shark attack off the coast of Marin County on December 11, 2023, raising alarm among local beachgoers. The incident occurred around 9 a.m. near the mouth of Tomales Bay, as reported by officials.
The surfer, who remained unharmed, managed to fend off the shark, which inflicted damage to his surfboard. Local authorities are responding swiftly, with Graham Groneman, battalion chief of the Marin County Fire Department, confirming the attack was in an area known for frequent shark activity. “It’s where shark experts do research on great white sharks,” Groneman stated.
In response to this alarming event, warning signs have been posted at Dillon Beach to alert swimmers and surfers of potential shark presence. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is actively investigating the incident, collecting a DNA sample from the damaged surfboard to identify the species involved. According to Peter Tira, a CDFW information officer, results from the analysis are expected to take time due to the holiday season.
This incident marks the second shark attack reported this month off the coast of Marin and Sonoma Counties. Earlier in December, a surfer was hospitalized after a shark encounter at North Salmon Creek Beach in Bodega Bay, sustaining injuries to his hand. Both incidents highlight the growing presence of sea lions in the area, which are attracting more sharks, including great whites, according to experts.
While shark attacks on humans remain rare, they can occur when a shark mistakes a surfboard for prey. Data from the CDFW indicates that there have been 229 documented encounters between sharks and people along the California coast since 1950. Of these, 199 incidents involved great white sharks, with 16 incidents reported along the Sonoma County coast and 18 incidents in Marin County.
With the recent surge in shark activity, officials urge caution for those engaging in water sports. Beachgoers are advised to stay updated on local shark activity and heed warning signs posted on the beaches.
As authorities continue to investigate, the community is on high alert, reminding everyone of the importance of safety in waters known for shark habitats. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
