Maine lifeguard dragged by shark as beach sightings surge
A 71-year-old lifeguard was pulled underwater by a great white shark at Scarborough Beach State Park on 8 August, and Maine state officials said on 11 August that shark sightings near popular beaches have increased recently. The incident, reported by multiple local outlets, described the lifeguard being briefly dragged five feet while using a rescue torpedo, prompting a temporary beach closure and safety checks. He was released unharmed and returned to duty the following day, and authorities heightened shark alerts along the coast.
Earlier reports confirmed the shark’s presence off the shore and noted that the beach was closed for safety inspections after the lifeguard’s encounter. State officials have warned that near-shore shark activity has risen in recent weeks, urging beachgoers to remain vigilant.
