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| Photo Credit: AP. Photo type: Representation. |
Authorities in Suffolk County have closed a long Island beach to swimming Sunday after a shark attacks lifeguard during a training exercise. The lifeguard had been playing the role of a victim during a training exercise when the shark bit him in the chest and hand, Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone said during an afternoon news conference, The Associated Press reported.
The attack
reportedly happened about 10:15 a.m., at Smith Point beach. The lifeguard was
receiving stiches and in “very good spirits,” Bellone said, according to The
Associated Press.
“If you’re
going to have an encounter with a shark this is probably the best scenario you
could have,” Bellone said, adding the lifeguard received immediate treatment
from other officials already engaged in the training. “We have never had an
incident like this occur. Hopefully we never will again.”
The attack
prompted the beach to be closed to swimming the rest of the day but is expected
to reopen Monday with officials monitoring the water for sharks.