A 56 year old woman from Minnesota was killed after being attacked by a shark while swimming near Dorsch Beach on the island of St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Authorities said the woman lost an arm during the attack and was rushed to a local hospital, where she later died from her injuries despite efforts by emergency responders and medical staff to save her.
The victim was identified as Arlene Lillis of Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, who was visiting the island at the time. Emergency services received multiple calls reporting a shark bite near the shoreline, prompting a rapid response from marine units, firefighters, and paramedics.
Officials searched the area to ensure no other swimmers were injured and confirmed there were no additional victims. The species of shark involved has not been confirmed, and local authorities are continuing to investigate the incident.
Local leaders expressed condolences to Lillis’s family and acknowledged the efforts of first responders and bystanders who attempted to provide aid during the emergency.