Swimmer Bitten by Juvenile White Shark During Catalina Channel Swim

Shark Attack Incident

• 🦈 A long-distance swimmer was bitten by a juvenile white shark approximately 12 miles off the coast of San Pedro while attempting a solo swim across the Catalina Channel.
• 🚑 The attack occurred around 1:30 AM, and the swimmer, who suffered minor injuries, was brought to shore by a fire boat and subsequently transported to the hospital.
• 🌊 The shark, estimated to be 3 to 4 feet long, reportedly nipped the swimmer's right foot before swimming away.

Context and Rarity of Attacks

• 🏊 The swimmer was accompanied by a pace boat, which likely had eyes on the shark as it approached.
• ⚠️ State wildlife officials note that shark incidents in California are rare, with just over 220 recorded since 1950, most not involving injuries.
• 📊 So far this year, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife has documented only three shark incidents, none of which involved injuries.