Home / Disasters and Accidents / Shark or Otter? Mystery Animal Bites Swimmer in Lagoon
Shark or Otter? Mystery Animal Bites Swimmer in Lagoon
14 Jul
Summary
- Swimmer was bitten by a small marine animal in Foster City Lagoon.
- Authorities are investigating but have not confirmed shark involvement.
- Residents speculate about leopard sharks or otters as potential culprits.
A man was bitten by a small marine animal in the Foster City Lagoon on Monday afternoon. The 74-year-old swimmer sustained bite marks on his lower leg, described as small puncture wounds by Foster City Police Lt. David Orlando.
While initial dispatch traffic indicated a shark bite, officials have yet to confirm the animal's species. Residents familiar with the lagoon have offered theories, including leopard sharks, which are known to enter the Bay as juveniles, and otters, which have been observed near the water's edge. However, Lt. Orlando stated that in his 23 years of service, he has never heard of any such interaction in the lagoon, calling the incident shocking.
Authorities are continuing their investigation and are advising the public to report any unusual marine animal activity observed in the lagoon. A witness recounted helping to pull the injured swimmer to safety, noting blood but not seeing the animal involved.
