NEW SMYRNA BEACH, FL — A surfer reported a shark bite Wednesday morning at New Smyrna Beach after saying he was bitten on the foot while in the ocean. Volusia County Beach Safety said crews found him on the beach with an injury to his right foot, and he later declined additional treatment.
At a glance
- Animal: Shark, species not identified
- Where: New Smyrna Beach, Florida
- When: Wednesday morning, shortly after 11 a.m.
- What happened: A surfer said a shark bit his foot while he was in the water
- Status: Beach Safety checked on him and he declined further treatment
- Anyone hurt: Yes, the man had an injury to his right foot
What happened
Volusia County Beach Safety spokesperson Alex Miller said the report came in shortly after 11 a.m. Wednesday. The man told officials he had been surfing when the bite happened.
Beach Safety members then found him on the beach and saw that he had an injury to his right foot. Miller said the man was treated at the scene, but he chose not to get any more help from first responders.
Officials said he did not offer additional details about the encounter. After being checked by responders, he eventually left the area.
New Smyrna Beach is one of the better-known surf spots on Florida’s Atlantic coast, and shark encounters are not unheard of in the area. Even so, most sightings do not lead to serious injury, and many involve brief contact or a quick warning bite rather than a prolonged attack.
About the animal
Sharks are large marine predators with streamlined bodies, powerful tails, and rows of teeth adapted for gripping prey. Depending on the species, they can range from just a few feet long to far larger than a person.
Most sharks feed on fish, rays, squid, and other sea life. They usually are not looking for people, and many close encounters happen when a swimmer or surfer is simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Florida’s Atlantic waters are home to many shark species, and they are commonly found near beaches, inlets, and areas where bait fish gather. Although shark attacks on people are rare compared with the number of ocean users, bites can happen, especially near surf zones.
If you encounter one
If a shark is seen nearby, get out of the water as calmly and quickly as possible. Avoid splashing, keep your movements steady, and head toward shore without making sudden jerks that may draw attention.
Swimmers and surfers should also avoid entering the water near schools of fish, fishing activity, or low-visibility conditions such as murky water or dawn and dusk. Keeping pets out of the surf and supervising children closely can reduce risk as well.
If someone is bitten, call 911 or local lifeguards right away, then apply firm pressure to the wound with a clean cloth or towel if possible. Local beach safety officials or the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission can also be notified about the sighting.
What happens next
Volusia County Beach Safety did not announce any wider closure or evacuation after the report. The man left the beach after being checked by responders.
Officials often continue monitoring surf conditions after a shark report, and beachgoers are typically urged to stay alert and follow lifeguard or beach patrol instructions if another sighting is made.
Spotted a dangerous animal where you live? Report it to your state wildlife agency or local animal control.
