Nonfatal Shark Attack Prompts Vandenberg Beach Closures

[UPDATE] The victim — a 28-year-old government civilian employee of the Air Force Base — suffered a bite to the knee from the shark, a Vandenberg spokesperson said Friday afternoon. The attack occurred around 5:30 p.m. on Thursday when the man was surfing near Jacks Point, which is approximately one mile from Wall Beach. The man’s condition is unknown, but the spokesperson stated that he immediately went to the emergency room. Two people surfing nearby reported the shark as being 10-12 feet long. The shark is “more than likely” still in the area, the spokesperson said.

Surf, Wall, and Minuteman beaches will be closed through Sunday at 4 p.m. due to a nonfatal shark attack that occurred earlier this week a quarter-mile north of Wall Beach, Vandenberg Air Force Base officials said on Friday. The condition and extent of injuries of the male victim — a member of the military — is unknown, a Vandenberg spokesperson said, adding that his name isn’t being released at this time. Further details, including what type of shark is believed responsible for the attack, couldn’t be confirmed by Vandenberg officials.