An American boy has been injured in a shark attack while swimming in the Bahamas.
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The 12-year-old, who has not been publicly identified, was in the water with his brother. The two were near Staniel Cay Island when the terrifying incident unfolded at around 3:30 p.m.
He was transported by boat to New Providence, where he received emergency medical treatment.
Shark Attack Leaves American Boy Hospitalized
Officials said the boy was listed in stable condition on Wednesday. Although the extent of his injuries has not been publicly disclosed.
Authorities have also not revealed the species of shark involved in the attack.
While shark attacks often attract widespread attention, such incidents remain relatively uncommon in the Bahamas.
According to the International Shark Attack File database, cited by The New York Post, there have been just 29 recorded shark attacks in the region.
The Bahamas ranks ninth worldwide for unprovoked shark attacks. While the United States has recorded the highest total, with 1,441 documented incidents.
Last year, a 63-year-old American was also injured in a shark attack while spearfishing near Big Grand Cay in the remote Abaco Islands of the Bahamas.
Recent Shark Attacks Raise Safety Concerns
The latest incident comes only weeks after a woman suffered catastrophic injuries during a shark attack off the coast of Sydney, Australia.
Leah Stewart, 34, sustained multiple bite wounds, broken bones, and "severe blood loss" during the attack.
An off-duty lifeguard rushed into the water to bring Stewart back to shore. Then a critical care doctor, who happened to be at the beach, joined first responders in stabilizing her condition.
She was later airlifted to hospital for emergency treatment.
"Leah is a dedicated and loving mother, a passionate teacher, and a Coogee local who loves the ocean," Stewart's brother, Joshua, said following the incident.
"As a family we are shocked and devastated that this could happen to our beloved partner, daughter and mother who is so full of life and energy."
Stewart was placed in a medically induced coma following the attack. She has since briefly regained consciousness after doctors reduced her medication.
She remains in intensive care and has undergone five days of surgery, with additional procedures expected in the coming weeks.
