British Tourist Loses Arm and Leg in Shark Attack in Tobago, Prompting Beach Closures

On April 26, 2024, Peter Smith, a 64-year-old British tourist, was attacked by an 8-10 foot long, 2 foot wide bull shark while swimming in waist-deep water near Starfish Resort in Courland Bay, Tobago. The shark attack resulted in severe injuries, including the loss of Smith's left arm from the elbow down, the severing of his left thigh, and lacerations to his stomach.

Eyewitnesses reported that other swimmers tried to fight off the shark and get Smith to shore, where a passerby provided first aid before an ambulance arrived. Smith was immediately airlifted to the Scarborough General Hospital, where he underwent multiple surgeries that lasted over three hours. The medical team was able to preserve his limbs, and he is currently in a stable condition after receiving a blood transfusion.

The incident prompted the closure of seven beaches and the nearby Buccoo Reef Marine Park for investigation and to "neutralise the shark threat, if possible". The Tobago House of Assembly, Tobago Emergency Management Agency, and Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard have all been involved in the response, conducting drone surveillance, Coast Guard patrols, and fisheries searches to ensure safety in the area.

Why this matters: The shark attack on Peter Smith highlights the rare but serious threat that sharks can pose to beachgoers, even in popular tourist destinations. The incident has raised concerns about beach safety and the potential impact on Tobago's tourism industry, which relies heavily on its reputation for safe and beautiful beaches.

The Foreign Office is supporting Smith's family, and local authorities have called on tourists and locals to stay out of the water while they assess the situation. Tobago House of Assembly Chief Secretary Farley Augustine stated that shark attacks are extremely rare in the region, with only two recorded incidents in the past 20 years, neither of which occurred within 200 miles of the island. The attack has had an impact on both the victim and other visitors to the island, with some being reluctant to enter the water due to the threat of sharks.

Key Takeaways

• British tourist Peter Smith, 64, severely injured by 8-10 ft bull shark in Tobago.
• Smith lost left arm, had left thigh severed, and suffered stomach lacerations.
• Smith underwent multiple surgeries and is in stable condition after blood transfusion.
• Beaches and marine park closed to neutralize shark threat and ensure public safety.
• Shark attacks are rare in Tobago, with only 2 incidents in 20 years prior.