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Shark likely caused swimmer's injuries at Jones Beach, officials say
Video shows crowd push shark in distress back into water at Rockaway Beach
Video shows crowd push shark in distress back into water at Rockaway Beach
Video shows crowd push shark in distress back into water at Rockaway Beach
A woman injured while swimming at Long Island's Jones Beach was likely bitten by a shark, New York State Parks officials concluded.
The 20-year-old beachgoer reported getting bitten by an unknown marine animal in waste-deep water at the Central Mall beachfront, State Parks officials said.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation concluded a juvenile sand tiger shark was the most likely culprit after reviewing pictures of the woman's injuries and other information about the incident.
Swimming suspended at Jones Beach after suspected shark bite
The woman was treated for minor cuts to her foot and leg before being taken to Nassau County University Medical Center for non-life-threatening injuries late Wednesday afternoon, officials said.
Swimming was immediately suspended and a subsequent drone search for "dangerous marine life" was unsuccessful, they added.
Another drone search for sharks came up empty before swimming resumed Thursday morning. Lifeguards also scanned the water from shore and watercraft before declaring it was safe, officials said.
Ways to steer clear of sharks at the beach
New York State Parks says swimmers can do the following to minimize the risk of shark interactions:
Avoid areas with seals
Avoid areas with schools of fish, splashing fish, or diving seabirds
Avoid swimming at dusk, night, and dawn
Avoid murky water
Swim, paddle, and surf in groups
Stay close to shore, where your feet can touch the bottom
Always follow the instructions of lifeguards and Parks' staff
