EDGARTOWN – A woman was pulled from the water at Norton Point in Edgartown Monday. Edgartown town officials said she suffered injuries consistent with a shark bite. The victim was transported to Martha’s Vineyard Hospital. Officials temporarily closed the beach and warned people about the incident.
From the Town of Edgartown: At approximately 1:40 PM Monday, emergency personnel responded to Norton Point for a report of a swimmer who sustained an injury to her lower leg while in the water.
The individual, a woman in her late twenties, sustained wounds consistent with a bite from a marine animal. No shark or other marine animal was observed or confirmed in connection with the incident. Based upon the nature of the injuries, however, the wounds were considered consistent with a potential shark bite.
Edgartown Fire/EMS/Parks responded and provided medical care at the scene. The individual was subsequently transported to the hospital for further evaluation and treatment. Her injuries were reported to be non-life-threatening and did not involve the loss of a limb or other lifethreatening trauma.
In accordance with Town protocol following a suspected shark encounter, swimming at South Beach is suspended for several hours as a precaution. The temporary restriction will allow Town personnel to assess conditions before reopening the water to swimming.
The Town appreciates the prompt response of emergency personnel and beach staff. Beachgoers are reminded to remain aware of their surroundings while in the water and to comply with instructions from lifeguards and any posted beach advisories
