A British man, Peter Smith, 64, was severely injured in a shark attack while visiting Tobago with his wife, Jo, and friends. Despite the harrowing incident in Courland Bay on Friday morning, Peter is now conscious and able to communicate, according to his wife.
During the attack, two of their friends bravely intervened to fend off the shark. Authorities responded swiftly by closing seven beaches and coastal areas spanning approximately seven miles (11.3km) from Plymouth to Store Bay. Surveillance drones are being employed, and boaters are advised to exercise caution.
Bull sharks, known for their aggressiveness and tendency to inhabit shallow tropical waters, are among the species most likely to encounter and attack humans, along with great whites and tiger sharks.
Initially, a $10,000 (£8,010) reward was offered for capturing the shark responsible, but this offer was later rescinded.
Tobago, the smaller of the two islands comprising Trinidad and Tobago, lies in the southern Caribbean, about 74 miles (119km) off the coast of South America.
Peter is currently receiving intensive care at Scarborough General Hospital on the island, where he is in stable condition. His wife stated that Peter sustained injuries to his left arm and leg, puncture wounds to the abdomen, and injuries to his right hand, the extent of which is still being assessed. Medical professionals are determining the best course of treatment moving forward.