Florida Man In Critical Condition After Shark Attack On Boat, Deputy Hailed As Hero

A Florida man is in critical condition following a severe shark attack off the coast of Fernandina Beach. The incident occurred around 11:15 a.m. on Friday, prompting a swift response from the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit.

The victim, in his 40s, was on a fishing trip when he was bitten by a shark on the boat. The shark inflicted a severe bite on his right forearm, causing significant blood loss. The Nassau County Sheriff’s Office reported that a deputy quickly boarded the boat and applied a tourniquet to control the bleeding.

Sheriff Bill Leeper praised the deputy’s actions, calling him a “hero” for his quick thinking and life-saving measures. The deputy then piloted the boat to the Dee Dee Bartels boat ramp, where Fernandina Beach Fire Rescue was waiting. The victim was airlifted to UF Health Jacksonville Medical Center and is currently in critical condition, though he is expected to recover.

The Nassau County Sheriff’s Office shared a video on Facebook detailing the rescue and commending the deputy’s efforts. This rare attack adds to the limited number of shark incidents in Nassau County, with only eight confirmed attacks since 1882, according to the Florida Museum of Natural History’s International Shark Attack File.

Nassau County, located about 150 miles north of Volusia County, known as the “shark bite capital of the world,” has seen far fewer shark attacks. Volusia County has recorded 351 confirmed shark attacks since 1882, including 17 bites in 2021.

Last year, Florida experienced 16 shark attacks, accounting for 44% of all attacks in the U.S. and 23% of the global total. In June alone, three swimmers were attacked by sharks in two separate incidents on Florida’s Gulf Coast. One woman had her arm amputated and suffered critical injuries to her hip in Walton County, while two teenage girls were attacked near Seacrest Beach, sustaining significant injuries.

Sheriff Leeper’s commendation of the deputy highlights the importance of quick and decisive action in emergency situations. The deputy’s heroism ensured the victim received timely medical attention, significantly improving his chances of recovery.