Shark attack on kiteboarder | CTV News

A professional kiteboarder from Prince Edward Island says he was seriously injured in a shark attack while snorkeling off the Turks and Caicos Islands last week.

In an Instagram post over the weekend, Lucas Arsenault shared a photo of himself in a hospital bed, apparently missing his right lower leg and with his left leg and forearm heavily bandaged.

In an accompanying caption, he said the injuries were the result of a shark attack while snorkeling with family and friends on Thursday.

“It was a shocking experience. I cannot put into words how happy I am to be here,” he wrote. “This will bring new challenges for me, but I am incredibly positive and grateful that I am doing well here and can continue to enjoy my life to the fullest.”

Media in the Turks and Caicos Islands reported that the Canadian was attacked off the island of Providenciales. The Royal Turks and Caicos Island Police Force said in a statement on Friday that it had responded to a report the previous day that a 27-year-old man had been injured while snorkeling on Providenciales.

Police said he was brought to shore and taken to Cheshire Hall Medical Center for treatment, but did not release further details Tuesday.

Arsenault did not respond to an email message Tuesday and asked for privacy in his social media post.

“Life can be really fragile. Despite the terrible situation, I am incredibly lucky to still be here,” he said, vowing to adapt to his new situation.

“It’s a speed bump on the road on this journey of life,” he wrote.

The kiteboarder is sponsored by Hawaii-based kitesurfing equipment company Cabrinha, which describes him as a freestyle champion who has spent his entire life on Prince Edward Island. The company responded to his Instagram post, sending him and his family “positive vibes” and love.

Arsenault was featured in a 2018 video released by Cabrinha, created with support from Prince Edward Island Tourism, showcasing the best kiteboarding spots around the island.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 28, 2024.

For more news about Prince Edward Island, visit our dedicated provincial page.