A marine biologist conducting research off the coast of Costa Rica has narrowly survived a shark attack, sustaining a severe bite to his head. Dr. Elias Vance, an expert in marine ecosystems, recounted the harrowing experience, expressing profound relief at his escape.
The incident occurred earlier this week while Dr. Vance was engaged in routine underwater observation near the Cocos Island National Park, a renowned UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich biodiversity, including numerous shark species. According to preliminary reports, Dr. Vance was submerged, observing a school of hammerhead sharks, when the attack happened.
Authorities and Dr. Vance’s research team confirmed that a large shark, identified as likely a bull shark, approached him unexpectedly from behind. The scientist managed to fend off the animal after suffering a direct bite to his scalp and upper face.
“I felt an immense pressure and a sharp pain, then realized I was being pulled,” Dr. Vance stated from his hospital bed. “My first thought was ‘this is it.’ I pushed back with everything I had. She could have killed me.”
His quick reaction and the immediate assistance from his dive team were crucial in preventing more severe injuries. Team members, alerted by Dr. Vance’s distress signal and the sudden disruption in the water, pulled him onto their research vessel. First aid was administered on board before he was transported to a medical facility on the mainland.
Medical staff reported that Dr. Vance sustained several lacerations, including deep gashes to his head and scalp, requiring extensive stitches and reconstructive surgery. Despite the severity of the injuries, doctors confirmed that no vital organs were affected and his recovery prognosis is positive.
Shark attacks on humans are relatively rare, and bites to the head are even less common. Experts suggest that the shark may have been startled or mistook Dr. Vance for prey in the low visibility conditions. Dr. Vance, a seasoned researcher with decades of experience studying sharks, acknowledged the inherent risks of his work but emphasized the importance of continued research for conservation.
The incident has prompted a review of safety protocols for scientific divers operating in sensitive marine environments, although officials underscore that such encounters remain isolated events in the region.
Source: Read the original article here.
