Officials: Truro Victim's Injuries Consistent With 'Great White' Attack
TRURO (CBS) — State officials have confirmed that the injuries a man suffered off a Truro beach on Monday are consistent with those of a Great White shark attack.
The victim, identified as Christopher Myers, suffered severe cuts on both legs. The Department of Marine Fisheries said they believe that the shark clamped down on both legs in one bite.
"The bite encompassed both of the swimmer's legs, which tells us it was the mouth of a very large fish," said state marine biologist Dr. Greg Skomal.
Based on the size of the bite and the fact that Myers' injuries weren't more serious, Skomal believes that the shark was young and had limited hunting experience.
WBZ-TV's Jim Smith spoke with witnesses
Myers is currently recovering at Massachusetts General Hospital.
Photos and witness accounts helped officials confirm that the shark was a Great White.
Police also released the 911 calls from that incident on Tuesday.
"A shark attack, he's bleeding, he's wounded. His whole ankle's been bit, we need 911," one caller said. "He's on the beach, out of the water but he might lose his…"
Listen to the 911 calls
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Skomal says the shark was likely drawn to the area because of seals. The grey seal population along the outer Cape has exploded in recent years, because the animals are now federally protected.
Ballston Beach in Truro, the beach where the attack took place was back open on Tuesday.
WBZ-TV's Christina Hager has reaction from Truro
Signs were posted warning of recent shark sightings.
The last confirmed Great White shark attack on Cape Cod happened back in 1936.
WBZ-TV's Bill Shields contributed to this report.
