A Canadian tourist was the victim of a horrifying shark attack in Turks and Caicos earlier this month, having lost both of her hands after an attempt to take a selfie with the dangerous marine predator.
The 55-year-old woman was on a family vacation on the main island of Providenciales and reportedly tried taking a photo with a 6ft shark while snorkeling.
According to reports, she attempted to “engage with the animal from the shallows in an attempt to take photographs” when it bit both of her hands off.
A government statement revealed the woman was rushed to the Cheshire Hall Medical Center before being flown off the island for further care.
“The individual was taken to Cheshire Hall Medical Centre where she was stabilized and later flown off island for further medical care,” the government of Turks and Caicos said in a statement via Facebook.
The incident took place on February 7, with the beach remaining closed for two days thereafter.
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“Upon confirmation of the incident the Department of Environment & Coastal Resources (DECR) issued a beach closure notification from Thompson’s Cove Beach to Froggies ATV, Blue Hills in an abundance of caution. The beach was reopened on Sunday, February 9th at 1pm after it was determined that the shark had moved to deeper water.
Victim Has Both Hands Amputated Following Shark Attack
The species of shark was not confirmed, and the only information on the animal was its length, though authorities suspect it was a bull shark.
“The shark was estimated to be approximately 6ft in length, however the species is yet to be confirmed,” the government’s statement noted.
The woman, who was flown back to Canada, had one arm amputated below her wrist and the other halfway up to her forearm.
As far as shark attacks go, a large percentage of them are said to be provoked by humans.
It’s never a great idea to interact with sharks in any way, especially not for photos. At best, you get a daring snap to show off; at worst, you could die.
Terrible odds if you ask us.
Also Read: Shocking Video Shows Kayaker Being Swallowed Whole By A Humpback Whale Off The Coast Of Chile
