Three people wounded in separate shark attacks in Walton County, prompting closure of nearby waters.
Walton County, Florida, closed its waters following two back-to-back shark bite incidents on Friday. The attacks, which took place about 4 miles apart within 90 minutes of each other, resulted in three victims being injured. The incidents occurred in the Florida Panhandle, but officials are still unclear about how far the attacks took place from shore, according to Mackenzie McClintock, a spokesperson for the South Walton Fire District.
The first attack happened around 1:20 p.m. in Watersound Beach, when a 45-year-old woman was swimming with her husband near the first sandbar. The shark bite caused significant injuries, and emergency services responded promptly. The second attack occurred shortly after in a nearby area, leaving two additional victims with injuries. This series of attacks has been described as “extremely unusual” by South Walton Fire District Chief Ryan Crawford, who confirmed that such incidents occurring back-to-back in a single afternoon are rare.
In response to the incidents, local authorities closed the waters to ensure public safety and prevent further attacks. The South Walton Fire District, in conjunction with the Walton County Sheriff’s Office, is investigating the circumstances surrounding the attacks. Both incidents occurred in open water, not near boats, but the exact location relative to the shoreline is still being determined.
The authorities have not released further details about the victims’ conditions or the nature of the shark bites. Despite the unsettling nature of the attacks, local officials are working to reassure the public that measures are being taken to address the situation. The closures are expected to remain in place until further assessments can ensure the safety of swimmers and beachgoers.
These shark incidents have cast a shadow over the beginning of the summer season in Walton County, a popular tourist destination. Officials are urging visitors and locals to remain vigilant as investigations continue and safety measures are updated.
