Tragedy struck a Spanish couple’s honeymoon in the Maldives when a devastating shark attack resulted in the husband losing his leg. The incident unfolded as the newlyweds, Borja Garcia Sousa and his wife Ana, were enjoying a swim during their vacation, turning a moment of joy into one of horror.

Borja, a 31-year-old gynecologist and semi-professional soccer player hailing from Alicante, was attacked on April 11. The attack was described as horrific, with a family member recounting that the shark’s bite removed all the flesh from Borja’s knee down in a single, brutal motion.

Following the attack, Borja was swiftly rescued from the water and airlifted to ADK Hospital located in Malé, the capital of the Maldives. Due to severe vascular injuries that rendered the damage beyond repair, doctors had no choice but to amputate his leg.

Back in Spain, the shocking news left Borja’s colleagues at the Dr. Balmis University General Hospital reeling. One colleague expressed the collective disbelief and sadness, noting, “The staff, especially those who knew him, are in shock. Borja was known for his professionalism and politeness. For such a tragedy to occur during his honeymoon is devastating and life-changing.”

Back in Spain, his colleagues at the Dr. Balmis University General Hospital said they were stunned by the news.

“Staff at the hospital and especially those who knew him are in a state of shock,” one said. “Borja was always very professional, diligent and polite. For something like this to happen on your honeymoon … it’s just awful. It’s going to change his life.”

The tragedy began innocently enough when the newlyweds joined a group excursion to a popular swimming spot on the island of Kooddoo.

The area is known for its Spinner sharks, but experts believe a tiger shark was responsible because of its powerful bite. Other experts suggest a bull shark may also have been the culprit.

Local reports suggest the sharks may have been unusually aggressive because a nearby fish processing plant, which typically dumps waste into the water, had reportedly not done so for more than a week — increasing the sharks’ need for food.

“The sharks were likely in a heightened state of hunger,” a source told the local media. “When the group jumped in, the entry itself may have triggered a predatory response.”

Sousa’s family have lodged a formal complaint of negligence against the tour company, alleging reckless conduct.

“It was a terrible attack,” said a spokesperson from Residence Maldives, the luxury spa where the couple were staying. “It has been a traumatic experience for everyone at the complex.”

The tragedy is especially devastating because Sousa is a semi-professional soccer player back in Spain.

“We’re talking semi-professional at this level, with training sessions up to four times a week and sometimes two games every week,” said a former teammate from Mutxamel Benifutsal Sports Club, where Borja played, according to the Daily Mail.

“This is obviously going to have a life-changing impact for Borja. I just hope he pulls through.”

Local police have launched an investigation of the incident.