A Canadian tourist has tragically lost both of her hands in a terrifying shark attack while attempting to take a photo with the animal.
The victim, 55-year-old Nathalie Ross, was attacked in shallow waters off Thompson’s Cove Beach on the Turks and Caicos Islands at around 10:30 am on February 7.
According to reports, Ross had been trying to engage with the shark in order to capture a memorable photo. Unfortunately, the encounter took a deadly turn when the shark bit her hands, causing severe injuries.
Her husband, who was with her, bravely tried to fight off the shark before she was pulled to shore by onlookers.
Photos taken shortly after the attack show Ross lying on the beach as her husband and others worked frantically to stop the bleeding.
The victim was airlifted to a nearby hospital where she is expected to survive, despite losing both hands and sustaining additional injuries to her thigh.
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Officials say the shark involved was about 6 feet long, although its exact species has not been confirmed.
The Turks & Caicos Islands Government stated that Ross had been attempting to engage with the shark from the shallows when the attack occurred.
The incident took place at Thompson’s Cove Beach, located on the north side of Providenciales, the largest island in the Turks and Caicos chain.
In response to the attack, local authorities closed the beach until midday on February 9 to ensure the shark had moved to deeper waters.
The tragic event has sparked renewed discussion about safety precautions when swimming or interacting with marine life, with experts warning against trying to engage with sharks or other potentially dangerous creatures in the wild.
Footage of a shark thrashing in the water near the attack site has been shared online, further intensifying public concerns about shark encounters in the area.
