A lifeguard at Scarborough Beach in Maine faced a dangerous encounter this past Saturday when a white shark pulled him underwater. The lifeguard was using a rescue torpedo in the water when the shark grabbed the device. The pull dragged the lifeguard five to six feet below the surface. He successfully freed himself from the strap attached to the equipment and managed to swim back to shore safely. A bystander confirmed witnessing the rescue device breach the surface shortly after the lifeguard began his retreat.
Scarborough Marine Resource Officer Daryen Granata stated that the circumstances of this event match other shark activity patterns observed in the area. Experts from the New England Aquarium reviewed the details and verified the nature of the encounter. Following the incident, officials closed the beach to swimmers for one hour to monitor the surrounding water and assess the situation.
Local authorities report a high volume of white shark sightings near Scarborough Beach State Park and Higgins Beach. Multiple sharks have moved through nearshore waters and sandbar locations, raising concerns for public safety. The Scarborough Public Safety Team urges beachgoers to remain vigilant and follow all posted advisories.
Visitors should avoid swimming near seals or schools of fish, as these are common attractants for sharks. Swimmers must stay out of the water when directed by personnel and avoid going in alone. The state is keeping a close watch on the coastline, with additional beach closures reported in Georgetown due to recent sightings. Safety remains a priority as officials continue to track the presence of sharks near these popular coastal spots.