Tourist Loses Both Hands in Terrifying Shark Attack in Turks and Caicos
A Canadian woman sustained devastating injuries, including the loss of both hands, after a horrific shark attack off the coast of Turks and Caicos. The frightening incident occurred just meters from the shoreline while the woman was attempting to take a photo of the predator, authorities report.
Shark Strikes Tourist in Shallow Waters
The attack took place on Friday, February 7, in waist-deep waters near Blue Hills Beach on Providenciales, the main island of the Turks and Caicos archipelago. The 55-year-old woman, who has not been publicly identified, was vacationing in the Caribbean when she encountered the shark. Witnesses say she tried to photograph the animal when it suddenly turned on her, biting off both of her hands and severely injuring her thigh.
Her family, who had been observing from the shore, were horrified as her husband desperately fought off the shark in an attempt to save her. Local authorities estimate the shark to be between six and nine feet long and note that it continued to circle in the shallow waters even after the attack.
The species of the shark has not yet been identified, but experts suggest it could have been a bull shark or a tiger shark—both known for their aggressive tendencies.
Emergency Response and Beach Closures
Authorities and emergency responders rushed to the scene, where the woman’s family was desperately trying to control the bleeding using towels and any available materials. A statement from the Department of Environment & Coastal Resources (DECR) confirmed that the woman was transported to Cheshire Hall Medical Centre for stabilization before being flown off the island for advanced treatment.
Following the attack, officials temporarily closed beaches from Thompson’s Cove to Froggies ATV in Blue Hills. This closure lasted until Sunday, February 9, when authorities determined that the shark had moved into deeper waters.
The DECR issued a strong warning to tourists, urging them to adhere to safety guidelines and show respect for marine wildlife: “The DECR would like to remind the public to always be aware of their surroundings, follow local advisories, and respect marine life. Swim in designated areas, avoid murky waters, never swim alone, and do not attempt to feed marine wildlife under any circumstances.”
Increasing Concerns Over Shark Attacks
This marks the fourth recorded shark attack in the Turks and Caicos since 2020, raising concerns about the safety of both residents and visitors. Other recorded incidents include:
September 2021: A male tourist was bitten on the wrist by a shark, believed to be a seven-foot lemon or tiger shark.
May 2023: A 22-year-old tourist lost his foot in another brutal attack.
May 2023: A local resident was severely bitten while snorkeling, resulting in an amputation above the knee.
These recent events highlight the growing concern over shark activity in the region, making it more crucial than ever for both locals and tourists to remain vigilant and prioritize safety while enjoying the waters.
The frequency of shark attacks in the area has prompted local authorities to reassess safety measures and increase awareness among the public. As the region remains a popular tourist destination, ensuring the protection of both visitors and marine life will be key moving forward. Meanwhile, the victim’s family has expressed gratitude for the swift response from emergency teams and the care provided during the tragic incident.
