Multiple shark attacks were reported during the Fourth of July holiday in Texas and Florida, resulting in several injuries.
The Laredo Morning Times reported that at least four people were hospitalized with bite wounds on South Padre Island in Texas. The attacks, believed to be from a single shark, occurred in two separate incidents.
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Photos shared by the U.S. Border Patrol Laredo Sector showed first responders assisting a victim with a severe leg injury. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department stated that such shark encounters are uncommon in Texas and are usually cases of mistaken identity.
In Florida, a 21-year-old tourist was bitten by a shark in New Smyrna Beach while playing football in shallow waters. The injuries were reported as non-life threatening.
From the archives: With all the recent shark activity, should you stay out of the water?
Despite such incidents, shark attacks remain rare. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission indicates that the likelihood of being struck by lightning in Florida is higher than being bitten by a shark.
