An 18-year-old surfer was bitten by a shark last Friday while riding the waves at New Smyrna Beach, Florida, known as the "shark bite capital of the world," according to Volusia County beach safety officials. The incident took place near Sapphire Road, a few miles south of the New Smyrna Beach jetty, around midday, as reported by The News-Journal.
Despite sustaining a bite on his foot, the young surfer was taken to a medical facility with injuries that were not life-threatening, confirmed Tamra Malphurs, the beach safety director. This marks the fourth shark attack in Volusia County so far in 2025. The previous attack happened over the July 4th weekend when a 40-year-old surfer was bitten on the right arm in the same vicinity.
Understanding Shark Behavior in New Smyrna Beach
Experts from the Florida Museum of Natural History note that while the specific shark species responsible for the attack hasn't been identified, blacktip sharks are frequently involved in such incidents locally. Gavin Naylor, head of the Florida Shark Research Program, highlighted that the area's geographical and ecological traits—such as the sandbar layout and the Ponce de León Inlet—create optimal surf conditions but also attract schools of fish that serve as prey for sharks.
This scenario fosters an environment where accidental bites are more likely, Naylor emphasized. "Nutrient-rich waters, low visibility, and the presence of bait fish increase the chances of a shark mistaking a surfer's foot or hand for a fish," he told The News-Journal.
Volusia County's Shark Bite Statistics
The International Shark Attack File reveals that Volusia County leads Florida in shark bites, with 359 recorded incidents, significantly surpassing Brevard County's 159. Currently, dredging activities are underway at the Ponce de León Inlet, which might impact the number of attacks. However, Naylor cautions that there isn't enough data yet to draw a direct connection. "The sample size is small and the statistical noise is quite high," he stated.
For the time being, officials advise surfers to exercise heightened caution, avoid murky waters, and refrain from surfing alone, particularly in areas with recent incidents.
FAQs on Shark Incidents in Volusia County
Why is New Smyrna Beach prone to shark bites?
New Smyrna Beach's geographical features and ecological conditions, such as its sandbar structure and the Ponce de León Inlet, create ideal surf conditions that attract schools of fish, which in turn attract sharks.
What species of shark are most commonly involved in these attacks?
Blacktip sharks are the species most commonly associated with shark bite incidents in the New Smyrna Beach area.