A 55-year-old Canadian woman was seriously injured in a shark attack while on holiday in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The incident happened in shallow water near a beach while she was standing only a short distance from shore.
Police say the woman went close to the shark to take a photo. While she was in the water, the shark attacked without warning. Her husband tried to push the shark away, and people nearby rushed to help her once she reached the shore.
She was taken to a local hospital, where doctors confirmed that both of her hands were bitten off. One hand was severed at the wrist, and the other lower down the arm. She was later flown back to Canada for further treatment.
Authorities believe the shark was about six feet long, but the species has not been confirmed. After the attack, the beach was closed as a safety measure, and officials warned people to stay out of the water.
Shark attacks in this area are rare. Even so, local officials reminded visitors to be cautious in the ocean, avoid getting close to marine animals, and follow safety advice to prevent serious injuries.