A tragic incident occurred in the U.S. Virgin Islands on Thursday, when a Minnesota woman lost her life following a shark attack that severed her arm.
The victim, identified as 56-year-old Arlene Lillis from Minnesota, was confirmed dead after the attack, according to a statement released by the U.S. Virgin Islands Police Department.
Emergency services received several 911 calls shortly before 4:30 p.m., reporting that a shark had attacked a woman at Dorsch Beach on St. Croix.
The attack took place approximately an hour and a half before sunset, adding to the urgency of the situation.
Authorities have yet to determine the species of shark involved in the incident.
In response to the emergency, police dispatched marine units alongside fire and emergency medical teams to the location.
Fire officials confirmed the woman lost an arm during the attack and later succumbed to her injuries.
While it was reported there may have been a second victim, St. Croix Rescue searched the perimeter of the beach area and did not find anyone else.
Witnesses told authorities they spotted a shark with a body in its mouth following the attack. (Getty)
Police have not shared if the shark has been located, or what led to the attack.
“Our hearts are with the family and loved ones of the victim, and with everyone who witnessed this tragedy,” Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. wrote in a statement. “We have been briefed on the information known at this time, and we are grateful to the bystanders who acted immediately to render aid and to the first responders who worked urgently and bravely in an effort to save her life.”
Lt. Gov. Tregenza A. Roach also expressed condolences and gratitude to first responders.
It is unclear what led to Thursday’s shark attack in the U.S. Virgin Islands. (Getty Images)
“On behalf of the people of the Virgin Islands, I extend our deepest condolences to the victim’s family and all who are grieving this loss,” Roach wrote. “In moments like this, we are reminded how quickly life can change. We thank the individuals on the scene who stepped forward to help, and we commend our first responders for their swift action and professionalism under extremely difficult circumstances.”
The investigation is ongoing, according to authorities.
About two weeks earlier, a 55-year-old woman vanished off the coast of California, with witnesses telling authorities they saw a shark breach the water with what appeared to be a human body in its mouth.
The Pacific Grove Police Department told CBS News the incident was being investigated as a possible shark attack, though the Coast Guard said there was “insufficient evidence” to confirm the case was related to the reported shark sighting.
