Home / Disasters and Accidents / Grandmother's Vacation Ends in Horror Shark Attack
Grandmother's Vacation Ends in Horror Shark Attack
11 Jan
Summary
- A 56-year-old grandmother lost an arm in a shark attack.
- Two swimmers heroically rescued her but she later died.
- Shark attacks are rare in the US Virgin Islands.
A tourist's vacation to the US Virgin Islands turned tragic when a 56-year-old grandmother, Arlene Lillis, was fatally attacked by a shark. The horrifying incident occurred near the shore of western St. Croix, where beachgoers heard a distressing scream and witnessed Lillis bleeding profusely, having lost an arm.
Two quick-thinking swimmers, one a former lifeguard, managed to pull Lillis from the water and administer first aid, including creating a tourniquet. Despite their heroic efforts and reassurances, Lillis, who was visiting the US territory she frequented, ultimately died from her extensive blood loss.
While shark sightings are not uncommon in the area, fatal attacks are exceptionally rare, with this being the second such incident in a decade. Authorities are investigating the attack, emphasizing that such encounters are unusual. Plans are underway to enhance safety information for tourists regarding wildlife awareness.
