Several shark attacks reported off South Padre Island in Texas; 1 man severely bitten

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND, Texas — Several shark attacks disrupted Independence Day celebrations on South Padre Island. One man was hospitalized for a severe bite, authorities said Thursday.

According to South Padre Island City Clerk Nikki Soto, police were called to the attack on the man around 11 a.m. He was treated on the beach by firefighters and police before being taken to the hospital.

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND, Texas — Several shark attacks disrupted Independence Day celebrations on South Padre Island. One man was hospitalized for a severe bite, authorities said Thursday.

According to South Padre Island City Clerk Nikki Soto, police were called to the attack on the man around 11 a.m. He was treated on the beach by firefighters and police before being taken to the hospital.

There is currently no information about the man’s condition or the severity of his injuries.

Game warden Captain Chris Dowdy said four separate attacks were reported within a period of about two hours.

Based on witness statements and images on social media, authorities believe that a single shark, approximately 1.8 meters long, was responsible for the incident, according to Dowdy.

Beach patrols, firefighters and police patrolled the coast and flew drones after the attacks, Soto said.

The last reported shark attack in the area occurred five years ago, according to Dowdy.

Texas Parks & Wildlife is assisting with the investigation.