Del Mar beach section closed for 24 hours after swimmer sustains “significant” injuries from shark attack, city officials report.
Del Mar, a posh coastal city near San Diego, closed most of its beaches after a shark attacked a man during a group swim. The 46-year-old victim sustained injuries to his arm, hand, and torso but was expected to survive. Lifeguards closed a stretch of beach for 24 hours as a precaution.
The incident occurred close to lifeguard headquarters, and nearby beaches remained open. The attack happened under normal June conditions, with mild waves and cool water temperatures. Research suggests that juvenile white sharks may be more active near shore during spring and summer, potentially influenced by habitat changes like water temperature. While shark attacks are relatively rare in California, San Diego County has recorded the most incidents since 1926, with surfing and bodyboarding being the most common activities involved.