Shark attack severely injures teen girl at North Carolina beach, officials say
A 17-year-old girl was airlifted to the hospital after being bitten by a shark at a North Carolina beach, firefighters and hospital officials said.
The bite happened around noon Sunday at Fort Macon State Park in Atlantic Beach, according to a press release from the Atlantic Beach Fire Department.
The victim, Paige Winter, “is in good condition and receiving excellent care,” according to Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, .
The attack happened at about 12:20 p.m., according to the hospital statement.
The teen’s father saved her life, according to a statement from the hospital, which called his actions “heroic,” according to the hospital.
The girl’s hands and legs are severely injured, and she was taken by helicopter to Vidant Medical Center, according to the fire department release.
The hospital confirmed a shark bite injured the teen.
A park ranger also told WCTI that the girl was bitten by a shark.
“Despite this unfortunate circumstance, Paige is an unwavering advocate for the marine life and the animals who live in the water. She wishes for people to continue to respect sharks in their environment and their safety,” hospital officials said.
This story was originally published June 2, 2019 at 5:15 PM.
