Four People Have Been Injured In Shark Attacks Off The Coast Of South Padre Island Texas Within The Span Of A Few Hours

Several Injured in South Padre Island Shark Attacks

Four people have been injured in shark attacks off the coast of South Padre Island, Texas, within the span of a few hours.

The first attack occurred at approximately 10:10 PM EDT on Thursday, July 4, 2024, when four people encountered a shark while swimming off the coast. One man sustained a severe shark bite near the 4100 block of Gulf Boulevard, and was transported to the hospital.

From approximately late Thursday morning to about 12:30 PM, at least one shark attacked up to three more victims within South Padre Island city limits. One person was severely bitten in the leg, while another sustained a minor bite to the hand. A third victim was reportedly bitten, but the extent of their injuries is unknown.

The attacks have prompted officials to temporarily close South Padre Island beaches to swimming. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is investigating the incidents and has deployed staff to the area to monitor for sharks and ensure public safety.