SOUTH PADRE ISLAND, TEXAS, USA – JULY 4, 2024 Off the coast of South Padre Island, a dramatic bull shark attack occurred involving a group of four people. Three of them suffered only minor injuries, but 48-year-old Tabatha Sullivent had her entire left calf muscle bitten off by the shark. She nearly died from blood loss. Among the other injured was her husband, who tried to save her.
Tabatha Sullivent
Tabatha narrowly escaped death thanks to the quick actions of bystanders, who used a tourniquet to stop the bleeding until emergency responders arrived. She subsequently underwent multiple challenging surgeries, skin grafts, and a long recovery. She now actively shares her story to raise general awareness about safety when swimming and encountering sharks.
Tabatha after the skin graft
Although shark attacks in Texas are very rare, it is always good to be prepared. If you encounter a shark, it is important to stay calm and avoid sudden movements that could trigger its predatory instincts. Try to swim slowly toward shore while keeping visual contact with the shark. It is also advised to avoid swimming with open wounds, as blood can attract the animal (menstruation increases risk only slightly). If an attack occurs, defend yourself by striking the shark in its most sensitive areas – gills, eyes, and nose.
On GoFundMe, there is a public fundraiser set up to support her recovery. You can show your compassion and contribute HERE.
READ MORE:
https://www.mysanantonio.com/news/south-texas/article/shark-attack-south-padre-island-texas-20400568.php
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/jul/05/shark-texas-beach
https://abcnews.go.com/US/south-padre-island-shark-attack/story?id=111677292
