Fatal shark attack off San Diego coast *

Updated 12:19 pm

A 66-year-old man swimming in the ocean off Solana Beach was killed this morning by a shark, quite possibly a great white shark, according to one marine expert. The attack took place about 150 yards offshore as the man, identified as Dave Martin from Solana Beach, was swimming with a group training for an event, reports Molly Hennessy-Fisk.

"They were swimming and the victim apparently yelled ‘Shark,’ or words to that effect, and the witnesses that were in the water apparently saw him actually being lifted out of the water and drug under,” said San Diego County sheriff's spokesman Phil Brust. “They went to his aid and dragged him onto the beach, where he succumbed to his injuries.”

It's not clear what kind of shark killed Martin. But at a news conference, shark expert Richard H. Rosentblatt from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography said that based on descriptions of the attack and the wounds inflicted "this almost certainly was a great white shark."

Officials have closed off beaches in Solana Beach and Encinitas as a precaution, according to the San Diego Union Tribune.  Aircraft will patrol the coast for the remainder of the weekend in an effort to try and spot a shark.

The Associated Press is reporting that the last fatal shark attack in California took place in 2004, when a great white killed a skin diver off the Mendocino County coast.

-- Jesus Sanchez

Photo: Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times

Comments

[Noel]

This is an awful tragedy. But it's a good lesson for everyone to learn. Sharks are intelligent hunters. They will not attack prey that appears to be a challenge. If an animal is alone and appears weak or sick...the shark will be more likely to attack that animal. ALWAYS go surfing or swimming in a goup. NEVER go surfing or swimming alone. NEVER go surfing or swimming late at night or early in the morning...this is shark feeding time.

[Brett]

I hope everyone disregards that post from Noel, who is obviously not a surfer. This guy was not swimming alone when attacked. You have an infinitely higher chance of getting run over in the street than getting attacked by a shark. Traffic is greater in the mornings and evenings, so does that mean you should stay off of the road during those times? Use caution in the water, report shark sightings, but arranging your schedule of going in the water is ridiculous and not necessary.

BWC

[surf21]

I agree all the way man. Just dont go surfing! thx for backing me up on this one guys! surf21

[Jeremy Stromsoe]

Extra info:

I live in San Diego and heard on the radio about 5 minutes ago (10:20am):

17 miles north and south of solana beach ocean waters are closed for swimming surfing ect. as they look for the shark, which the other swimmers in the water identified as a great white.

The swimmer was a 66 year old male, and was training for a triathlon with a group of OTHER SWIMMERS. HE WAS NOT ALONE.

[rob]

The man who was attacked was with a group of swimmers, who regularly swim in the area.

[Rosie]

When are people going to learn?
They are "looking for the shark" ?? (!)

IN THE OCEAN?????

Its just like all those idiots piling into their little boats in the movie Jaws.

Newsflash humans - sharks live and hunt in the ocean. I don't care what time it is, who you're with or where in the world you are. You want to flail on the surface? You're bait!

[ALEC MCTURK]

Don't Surf!!!

It is extremely dangerous!!!

Play it safe. Stay out of the water or better yet stay home, especially during the summer months.

[surf21]

Thx agin guys. That why myself and a gruop of friends are activly tring to get "no surfing" signs posted up and down the beaches. We are staring in California but we deff plan on spreading out to other states and the whole midwest in general. Lets work together on this on guys! thx surf out

[Kevin J. Sullivan]

The water was very cold this morning, according to the Weather Channel. Great White sharks thrive in cold water. A surfer or swimmer in a wetsuit, looks a lot like a seal or sea lion to these sharks. Most fatal shark attacks are due to loss of blood, and not due to the victim being eaten whole.

Kevin Sullivan
La Jolla, CA.

[kushyte]

i love how people try to make it sound like your chances are so slim of getting attacked and how sharks are just cuddly and lovable LOL. if you go in there territory you are a moron, people go swimming where great whites hunt seals and then wonder why they get killed. these people are diiots go swim in a freaking pool.

[Char]

I agree with Rosie!

We are having recreastional time on their turf! They LIVE in the ocean, and we are visitors (or I guess-bait-as Rosie put it).

I'm not happy this man was killed. He was probably really cool...66 and training for a triathalon? WOW!

But still, we shouldn't hunt down the shark! Humans are ruining their world, we are the ones to blame.

[Steve]

You people and your knee-jerk reactions to isolated events.
Sure, if you stay home and don't go near water, your chances of getting attacked by sharks are zero. If you swim, it goes up to, what, 10 million to one?
Don't let the media scare you out of having fun or helping strangers in need.
Life is meant to be lived. Living in fear is death.

[Ebrn]

I think everyone is missing the point here. A gentleman died this morning doing what he loved. At 66, I doubt he wasn't aware of the risk of ocean swimming. His choice, his reward, his risk. Can we all take a moment and give respect to him, hiis family, and the shark that acted as a shark does in his own environment?l

[bats]

Do surfers regularly go out 150 yards (nearly 500 feet)? That seems a little extreme -- honestly I don't know, the one's I've seen surfing at the various San Diego beaches seem much closer to the shore.
And while the victim might've been with a group, his age (no, I'm not being ageist!) might've contributed to the incident -- if the other swimmers were younger, stronger or faster swimmers, he might've been perceived as the best prey in the "herd" or "school" to the shark, slower than the rest.

[emaninebay]

I hate to say this but you have 100% chance of dying whether you stay in OR go out of the house. Of course, being attacked by a shark may not be your chosen method of termination but if you're in the ocean and a big fish is in the ocean and he's hungry - that's life! Stay in school.

[George Brolaski]

Sure! I suggest that everyone not only stay out of the ocean, but stay inside of your house. Better still, stay in your bedroom with the covers over your head and all the doors in the house locked so that you are safe from all harm.

[Kale]

Obviously the shark in question was probably hunting and once he attacked, let go and did not come back. Like most attacks it was probably a case of mistaken identity. A group swimmers at the surface probably looked like a group of 'young' seals. It is very unfortunate but the shark was doing what sharks do. Everytime you go in the water there is a chance but you probably have a better chance at winning the lottery than being attacked.

[spaceshark]

Of course, my heart goes out to the people who were there and their family and friends. People need to remember when they go in the ocean - they are going into someone else's territory an undersea jungle. "Looking for the culprit" is the same as looking for a bee after someone dies from an allergic reaction. Plus not all the facts are in -- were people fishing? Were there seals or baitfish in the water? And by the way, swimming in the ocean at dawn or dusk - is just not smart. In low light - a shark may go after something -- and not really even know what it is. Sharks are dangerous, the ocean is dangerous... the one thing we have on our side... is intelligence -- and a bunch of basic rules to prevent shark attacks. In this case, it looks like the early morning rule was violated.

[CarlosA]

So do you guys all agree on that we should ban such a very widespread and professional sport such as surfing just because you get (VERY) occasional shark attacks?

Really, let's ban driving too, and definitely other sports like skydiving or bungee jumping too!

Lets get "no driving" signs out on the streets!

Nah, everyone should know the risks; instead of banning we should be educating. And if people want to go surfing let them, because they would already know the risks they're undertaking (hey, many times it's those risks that make people do those things anyway)

[Rice]

The shark just needs state funded sensitivity training. This shark is prejudice, was obviously oppressed, and therefore is not accountable for it's actions.

[John]

Trying to get no surfing signs out? What is that? The last time I checked this is AMERICA. Do you remember the phrase “Life Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness” Does that ring a bell? It means if I want to go surfing because it makes me happy then I have that right. If someone is trying to stop me, you are actually violating my civil liberties.

[jaugust]

Alec Mcturk,
Give me and everyone else a break. Stay at home during the summer months? Surfing is dangerous? I don't know what sort of experiences you have had with the ocean, but you should probably look into moving out of California and into the desert you panzy!

[George Brolaski]

Sure! I strongly recommend to everyone to completely stay out of the ocean all the time and forever. But to be completely safe, you should stay inside your house and, furthermore, inside your bedroom, with the covers over your head, doors locked, praying to God to keep you protected from all harm. Maybe then the good surf spots will be less crowded for those of us who are foolhardy enough to tempt fate.
George Brolaski
Leucadia

[Dave]

If you can't hang, don't come in the water. It's the most extreme place there is and ocean sports are more extreme than all of the "x-sports" you see on TV. I've been a surfer/spear-fisher/free-diver/paddle boarder/etc my whole life and I certainly am not shocked by this. It's sad but it's part of the game. Plus, the guy died doing what he loved. Tons of respect to him! But to everyone who is getting bent out of shape about this- stay out. Don't come in. Those of us who have made this our lives don't want you here in the first place. Maybe this incedent will help to get all the kooks outta here and leave the rest of us to a less crowded coastline.

[jim]

Right on Alec! We need to warn all surfers and swimmers alike. Find a different form of recreation. Something safe and inexpensive. Just have your friends come by your place and hang out. I agree with the person who brought up Jaws. Heck, stay home and watch the movie. I mean sure its scary but its not real (at least not all of it). Thx for all the support on this site! " Stay inside and stay alive". That what my second favorite friend says. good day Surf

[Obbop]

Our group's efforts to protect people from themselves, to eliminate that one-in-millions odds of being bitten by a shark and the even greater odds that one will be killed, has been successful in Nebraska where it is illegal to enter the ocean or to even look at it, whether in person or via pictures.

[Joe]

Why do people treat Sharks on the same level as humans?
THEY ARE ANIMALS!!!!!!!

"Humans are ruining their world"
What logical lunacy do you subscribe to!!!

A shark kills someone, and all some people can think about is the poor shark!!!!

[Quaggi]

Steve has it right: LIVING IN FEAR IS DEATH. Take precautions, be smart, but DO WHAT YOU WANT TO DO. You'll be leaving soon either way....

[Rob]

About note about statistics:

You hear people say things like "you stand more chance of being run over by a car" or "more chance of being struck by lightning, than being attacked by a shark".

Every member of the human population is subject to being run over by a car or struck by lightning. Only a very small percentage of the human population ever goes in the water, and smaller still is the percentage of the human population that surfs or swims 150 yards offshore.

So much for statistics.

[Quaggi]

Steve has it right: LIVING IN FEAR IS DEATH. Take precautions, be smart, but DO WHAT YOU WANT TO DO. You'll be leaving soon either way....

[Reuben]

I feel for the person that died, but like some of the read!ers said, this is what they Do! the hunt!

And if you swim in the ocean you know the risk! so enjoy and don't complain when something snatches you!

And don't go looking to Kill the animal that you put yourself in it's way.

[Court]

"i love how people try to make it sound like your chances are so slim of getting attacked and how sharks are just cuddly and lovable LOL."

Yeah... you're an idiot.

No one is saying that sharks are cuddle and lovable, but your chance of getting attacked are slim. Incredibly slim, actually.

[Nancy]

What a terrible shame that something which started as fun and a great challenge turned out so rotten. Poor guy, and his poor family and friends. Our prayers are with you in a time of such sadness and grief.

[Josqueline]

Dont surf? thats moronic.

Thats like someone getting food poisoning and you tell them to stop eating.

Shark attacks arn't frequent. It's likey the shark thought he was a seal. he is 66 so posibly slow then others and seemed like easier prey. For people who are REALLY concerned... stay closer to shore.

But to tell people they are stupid for surfing? and to stay home? thats horribly parinoyd advice. You can stay home in your protective bubble where nothing can hurt you and the rest of us will live fullfilling lives venturing from our home and taking risks. that is what life is about. nothing is safe.

[MDub]

Did I read correctly that a bunch of people are trying to take away the past time of many Americans by posting NO SURFING SIGNS at beaches around the Country?? SERIOUSLY! what has this country come to. Stop because its DANGEROUS??? Everything is Dangerous, the people who use the Ocean for their own self improvement, relaxation, or hobby have every right to do so. I'm sure they are very aware of the risk involved. PLEASE do not force your views upon others simply because you feel its unsafe. STAY HOME! no one asked you to swim with them! Stay "SAFE" in your padded house and play with others who don't play because it to is unsafe. Shut down the playgrounds and the Hiking trails, and the football fields while your at it. Don't Drive, Don't fly, Don't go out in the sun, Don't go into the water, Don't Drink the Water, Don't walk at night, Etc., ETC., ETC......

[Josqueline]

they arn't "hunting" the shark, they are trying to verify that he left the area. Normal stuff after an attack that was fatal.

[surf21]

Hey George, you and I seriously need to hang out. Peole are all like..."ohhh its just a shark, no big deal". Well it is a big deal! Just look at what emaninebay had to say. This bro is spot on! and i quote "if you're in the ocean and a big fish is in the ocean and he's hungry - that's life" . Keep up the message guys and we can ban surfing and swimming altogether. When will people realize that the ocean is not for haing fun its for sharks and stuff! once again, surf out

[Searchquant]

My condolences to the family & friends of the man who was killed.

I went to UC San Diego and always went in the water there (surf, scuba, snorkeling) without EVER thinking about great white sharks, mainly because the last fatal GWS attack there was in ~1959 = a long time ago. This attack will certainly change the way people approach water sports down there.

Incidentally, I went on a great white shark diving trip to Isla Gaudalupe, an extinct volcano 200 miles off the coast of Baja California (click on 'searchquant' for a link to a photo from my first day there) and highly recommend it for anyone who wants to see these creatures in a more protected way.

[Bear]

Has anyone seen how crowded the good surfing beachers are? Please, please, please stay home . . . .safe. With all of you home I volunteer to do the dangerous job of monitering the waves alone! Oh, man sweet sweet elbowroom!
Also, here's to our passed-on swimmer friend! 66 and doing tri's? Now that's a full life!

[J]

This is why we dump toxic waste into the ocean. These things attack us because they hate us for our freedom to go in and out of the water, and they've been doing so long before we started hitting back with raw sewage and chemical waste.

[tm]

im a surfer that lives in florida on the east coast . and i would have to say a shark is only doing what it knows how to do . hunt for pray . we get hungry we what KILL a cow/chicken what ever to eat .. well that shark feels the same way hes got to eat to live . so hes always hunting for something to eat . he cant call out for pizza ..
i feel really bad for this guy . he was the son of someone . a father and a brother . RIP .

[Eggbert]

Who cares??? You have to die somehow, whether it be by a shark, a bear, a giraffe, an elephant, a hippo, a snake, a bat, a dog, a sasquatch, a cat, a gorilla, an eel, a goat, a tyrannosaurus rex, a camel, an ant, a bee, a deer, a goldfish, a tick, a spider... survival of the fittest!!! Kill them before they kill you!

[RJ Earle]

Lions and Tigers and Bears Oh My!!! Don't drive to the beach! Greenshouse gas and global warming will raise the sea and drown California! Eat only organic food so our bodies will be healthy and not give great whites indigestion! Wear a helmet when you ride a bike or you're sure to become brain damaged when you fall off!! Never criticize people who act like as***les if they are poor or of a different ethnic group or we might have riots!!! Let bums empty their bowels in public parks and in front of city hall in SF because it's our fault they are bums and we owe them!!! We need more laws and government regulation to protect us from making any decisions on our own during our lives!!! Crush the oil companies and stop them from drilling or building refineries so gas can go to $20 per gallon and we won't have to worry about global warming!!! Down with all big corporations because they're evil even though most of us have jobs because of the efficiency of corporations!!! We'll live free and till the soil and die from appendicitis!!! Never listen to that evil little voice inside you that tells you you have the right to not always be politically correct, or that sometimes police and the military are necessary, or that your college profs are flaming political propagandists!!! Always criticize anyone who succeeds in business or leadership or chooses to believe in religion instead of becoming an environmental fanatic in compensation!!! Always be against anything which has any negative consequences, even if the alternatives are worse, because then you can have unlimited self-esteem and no one can question your moral perfection, especially after we're all dead when a terrorist nuke wipes us all out in LA!!!! Lions and TIgers and Bears, OH MY!!!!

[patrick]

let's see....earthquakes, mudslides, forest/brush fires, widespread enviromental degradation, the Terminator as governor, a million illegal immigrants, a hyper-artificial, bourgeois, decadent culture, and killer sharks! The latter is just one more reason not to live in California. And don't go bleating on about shark attacks in Florida or Georgia; I wouldn't advocate living there, either. Left coast hellhole.

[Randy Cash]

Cage goes in the water, you go in the water. Shark's in the water. Our shark.

[Static1]

Ebrn said it right!!! Take your chances or stay home its your choice but still no gaurantee. I just wonder why close the beaches and when they reopen who is gonna say "its safe now" ! I heard the navy trains them as assasins maybe you could sue them its california after all. Good luck finding a lawyer to take on one of their own though!!! It happened again accept it and respect it!!!

[surf21]

I agree with ALMOST everything you said CarlosA. Except the part about "no driving" signs on the street. I do appreciate your agressive style but thats just silly IMO. However if you wanna bring that up at one of the next group meeting I bet we could get it on the ballot. Anyway thx for all the thoughtful comments guys! It people like Alec ,George, Carlos,and Obbop. Its guys like you that keep the hope alive! rock on forever and ever. (and praise the lord!) surf out!

[Heather]

You people are all freaking nuts. No you can NOt ban surfing or other water sports. I live in WI and just came home last night from San Diego. I swam in the ocean!! AND GUESS WHAT!??!?! I'M STILL ALIVE!!! yep you got it. You can not make people stay out of the ocean. Sharks get hungry, airplanes crash, cars crash, hell, you could even get ran over on a sidewalk, but does that stop any of us from, swimming in the ocean, or flying on airplanes or driving cars, or going for walks? NO. If your not aware of every risk of what you do, then thats just plain stupidity, I'm sure this 66 year old guy was well aware of what goes on in the ocean. Sh*t happens. it wasn't his fault, or the sharks fault. It was just an incident and there's nothing you can do about it. Don't stay in your houses, get out and live life. Humans are not made to live in fear, we're made to conquer it.

[Georgie]

Sharks hate us because they hate freedom. Sorry, but might doesn't make right. What the shark did was just plain wrong...and like all evil-doers, it must be brought to justish.

[Static1]

This just in a lawyer was misstakenly harpooned in a tragic accidental case of mistaken identity.

[Mr Goalie]

Always remember - You step inton the water - you are now part of the food chain!!!!

[sam]

No Surfing? Well I think that's a great idea. Considering we are banning all sorts of "EVIL" guns in California. Since we are so environmental here in California.. we should not be alarmed at this fatal shark attack. This is just nature weeding out the population. Think about it this way, we have reduce another carbon footprint now that Mr 66 year old is dead. Besides, he probably drove a Hummer or some god forsaken vehicle killing our environment.
Let's not think of this as a sad day for the swimmer, think of it as a victory for our Mother Earth.

[Bunky Leigh]

Maybe it was actually an alien, not a shark?

And, I will certainly support a ban on driving, those cell phone talkers are much more frightening - and dangerous - than the largest shark!

[Popeye McCain Jr]

Sharks are as sharks do. Hell they even had the gall to beat the Calgary Flames. But the worst shark of all is called the Great Hillary. Just look at those teeth. You don't want to swim around a Great Hillary, ever. They like canned Obamameat. But up in Canada, our frozen fish company is called McCain's. Its all about capitalism. Sharks can't survive anymore. The Great Hillary will soon be extinct. The last cans of it are being prepared by the McCain Company. They have a big freezer, though some think the Great Hillary is already cold enough. The long and the short of it is - better move to Canada. There hasn't been a shark attack in Canada in a long long time. For all of you Yankees either tired of paltry Obamameat or scarred to death of the Great Hillary. I pity all of you who get scaredy cat. Fear's a hard thing to let go of. You'll never think the ocean's the same again. Oh well, 'scuse me while I go listen to the Beach Boys. Go Montreal Canadiens! Beat 'dem sharks!

[chris]

thats exactly why i stay out of the ocean! the people that were in the water must be traumatized for life.
what r u going to do when ur out in the water, unable to run away in a hurry, and see a great white shark coming at you, or even worse not being able to see it, and at any moment thinking in the back of your head that you could be bit in half. thats messed up, and thats why i don't go swimming inthe ocean,

plus, there's plenty more girls on the beach than there are in the water!!!
-chris-

[bob]

Surfer keep surfing, swimmers keep swimming, manufactorers make a wetsuit that does not resemble a black seal. At 66 at home in the sea, if he had to go (if that is someones plan) then he went well. Not at home, or in a rest home. But he did go too soon.
Leave the shark alone, this is his first time and he obviously didnt ilke it and probably will not do it again.

Stop dressing up like lunch.

[Stephanie Dufour]

I'm truly sorry for the incident and the death of this man, I'm sorry fir his wife. This is the Pacific Ocean, and it's shark season...they are out there, be smart, if you're surfing or swimming...don't be the last swimmer in a group, don't swim or surf alone, for many reasons, not just sharks. I had a recent close encounter with an aggressive sea lion (well active, anyways)..I caught one in since I was alone. Beware of rips, currents, sandbars...those are more dangerous than marine animal attacks. If a shark comes towards you and you cant get away, punch him in the face...THEN paddle away.

[Bobo]

Hello everyone. I feel a great deal of negative energy flowing between everyone. Please, relax and stop calling each other names. I have a feeling the folks who are suggesting we actually ban surfing are probably joking. I hope so, 'cause it would be a shame to take this sport away from people. As far as the writer who described it as a "civil liberty"...are you serious? Your rights are outlined in a document that has been shat on and conveniently adjusted for decades. Surely an argument is not valid that is based on such a document, unless you are a history teacher (I am, but still look at the Constitution adn BIll of Rights as a bit of a joke). Seriously, though, I guy got KILLED BY A SHARK TODAY in our home waters. Wish the affected families well and MOVE ON. I like to play in the ocean. My brother's wife is afraid of the water. She does not go in. I do. She does not try to keep me out. Mind your own business, people.

[Kristin]

My heart goes out to the family and friends of the man who died today. I have to say though that he was a lucky man to die doing something that he loved. To everyone posting that it's not safe to surf or swim in the ocean I say give me a frigging break. There are risks associated with everything we do in our lives. Hell, eating fast food is probably more dangerous than swimming in the ocean. Seriously, how many of you personally know someone who has been attacked/killed by a shark? I'm willing to bet a very small %. But how many of you know people who have died from heart attacks due to poor diet? Probably almost everyone. Maybe driving is a better example. How many of you know someone who has died in a car accident? Probably all of you. Does that mean you aren't going to get in a car anymore? Doubt it. But if that is the case you should see a counselor because your fear is unfounded. You can't protect yourself from everything, and if you do you probably have an extremely boring life and I pity you. Be smart and careful but don't let unfounded fear run your life.

[Kristin]

I like to add that banning surfing and swimming in the ocean is the most ludicrous thing I've ever heard. Are you people for real? I'm seriously in disbelief that someone really thinks this way. Do you also think cheeseburgers, automobiles, and planes should be banned? They kill more people than sharks do. I'm embarrassed for you!

[John Tomson]

My Condolences to the gentleman and his family for their loss. I read every single one of these posts before giving my own.
Although disturbing in the realization that we are not the most powerful and intelligent life forms on this planet we must wake up to what we are doing to this planet. Hauntingly this attack comes after KPBS just aired a program about global warming and how our depletion of the marine fisheries stock is not only contributing to global warming but will have lasting consequences that have yet to be seen. HELLO! Wake up people!
You can either look at this as a random case of bad luck being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Or, you can search your soul and realize that this is one of many signs yet to come for our negligence and disregard for this planet that we call home. More people are killed in the U.S. each year by dogs than have been killed by white sharks in the last 100 years.
Just because sharks are not cuddly and cute doesn't give us the right to hunt them and destroy their habitat.
Say a prayer for this gentleman that was killed this morning and then say another prayer for yourself and the rest of the humans on this planet because its not over by a long shot and these attacks will continue as long as irresponsible humans are allowed to exploit the oceans for their own profit and gain.
Got something to say? Lets hear it.

[Dave]

I was out surfing at the same time as this guy; had the good fortune to be several beaches north of him.

I also was 150-300 yards from shore.

We surfers call this the "outside lineup."

The oceanic environment is changing in California, as wetlands (like Bolsa Chica) are re-vitalizing the food chain. Dead beaches are becoming living beaches. I saw my first live starfish ever at HB a month ago.

And with any food chain, comes the TOP of the food chain. And in the ocean we are not IT.

There will be more fish, more sharks, etc., as the environment improves.

We surfers have been spotting sharks at Bolsa for weeks now. The oceanographers have agreed with us; the lifeguards have not.

[Kristin]

Yes, John Tomson! You hit the nail on the head. Karma people! We will pay!

[John Tomson]

Had to comment on Georgies Post...Sharks hate us because they hate freedom. Sorry, but might doesn't make right. What the shark did was just plain wrong...and like all evil-doers, it must be brought to justish

With all due respect... Your an idiot!

[Km]

This is a tragedy and one that my triathlete coach swore rarely happens. Well it just did. He was doing the right thing by swimming in a group but the reality is, as said before, you are in the shark's territory. The ocean is his domain and every time we enter it we have to face the reality that a shark could bite you. What is greater, your fear of a shark attack or your love for the water? I personally will continue to train (ocean swims) Also, while I agree that it might be silly to post "no swimming or surfing" signs along the beach remember that the city has a responsibility to the public and these warning signs somehow make the public feel like they are doing something to protect us. Give them grace and be safe. Prayers for the family and may God keep you safe when you are out in the water.

[Mario G.]

It is a known fact to marine biologists that the path between Guadalupe Islands and all the way north to Farallon Islands is a Great White shark migration corridor and breeding ground. Great White sharks feed and breed in the deeper, cooler coastal canyons off Northern California. Baby Great Whites have been known to take seals off the coast due to the increasingly abundant seal population. I saw a dead sea lion wash onto the beach off Torrey Pines shredded to pieces. The public just does not know about it, because officials don't like to panic the swimmers. Whites are there and have always been. They come closer to land following seals...

[peterbop]

why the heck is everyone talking about surfing?????he was swimming...

[SS]

Why do people say the chances of slim? When it happens to you, it isn't a slim chance anymore, it's a 100% chance. And, why do people always remark about being hit by a car? I was hit by a car while I was walking. It was somebody with a cellphone who was talking on it and never called for help. Yep. People. You know? It was a concious choice made by humans. Do animals conciously choose to do bad things to us? As we conciously choose to do bad things to each other? I don't know. Seems the animals could be doing a lot more damage to us on purpose, and not help us out any, if that were the case. I also feel for the other people in the water who witnessed it. There are many ways to leave this earth, but I imagine to have left it that way, was pretty grim. I just hope the adrenaline was enouph that he didn't feel too much pain and that maybe he was in disbelief and denial for a while, like "What?" "I can't believe this is happening to ME?" On dry land or in the water or in outer space, life is a give and take.

[vega]

my heart goes out to the family of the victim. i surf a lot. i was surfing off sunset and pch at gladstones a few years back when there were about 5 baby great whites swimming among us. i didnt even realize it until i turned the news on and there i was, with a massive dark shape swimming under me on tv! or the time i was at swamis and i paddled through a large bloody patch of water where a seal was floating up and down-it had just been chomped. but it goes to show that they are always there. ALWAYS. simply doing their thing. and we are only visitors in their world. the victim was swimming there snce 1970 and not once did he see a shark. bad timing, bad luck. but i will say this. the guy went out like a bad ass. the most awesome predator on the planet took him swiftly. thats how i would want to go.

[Rick D.]

I'm a former resident of Solana Beach and now a resident of Hawaii who swims, dives and surf's here in Hawaii on a daily basis.

I surfed Fletcher Cove in Solana Beach for 25 years where the shark attack occurred today. I swam offshore alone, in the same vicinity as the shark attack in both the early morning and late afternoon for 25 years while training for my surfing water photography. I never had any problems with sharks there.

I've swam, surfed, scuba dived and filmed surfing from the water for 30 years in San Diego, Northern California's Red Triangle, Hawaii, Mexico, the Caribbean, South Pacific and many more remote shark infested waters. While filming, I've sighted sharks and been chased out of the water on numerous occasions by both sharks and large bull seals, but never in Southern California. The sharks that chased us were feeding on local fish and not us. The bull seals were being protective of their mates.

I had the privilege to meet film maker and shark expert Jimmy Hall here in Hawaii shortly before he died in 2007. I was invited to dive both in and out of a shark cage on Oahu's North Shore with a variety of sharks, mostly Galapagos. After doing so, I left the water with a whole new understanding about sharks.

Jimmy Hall, was a celebrity in Hawaii, running Hawaii Shark Encounters and defending the always maligned reputation of sharks. He was passionate about the environment, the ocean, and the aquatic life below the surface. He became well known around the world when he swam and videotaped the first-ever Great White Shark off Haleiwa, Hawaii. Jimmy Hall's stated many times, "the sharks don't want us".

Ironically, Jimmy Hall was killed in a tragic accident north of the Arctic Circle. Jimmy was in a very remote area near Sam Fjord on Baffin Island in Canada filming a documentary on the region that included base jumping from the incredibly harsh mountains. Jimmy died during one of those base jumps. The area is so remote, it's only accessible by plane, snowmobile, and then dogsled.

Jimmy was embarking on a new career. Having just been chosen as a host for Shark Week on DISCOVERY CHANNEL, he had just completed part of the series in the Bahamas. He was scheduled to head to the Great Barrier Reef off Australia in June, to swim with Great White sharks. The series was to air in late summer 2007.

Ultimately, Jimmy died doing what he loved. In fact, in an interview on CNN he summed up his "adventurous" lifestyle: "I'd rather blow up than rust."

I've personally, been there for the taking over the years if any shark had wanted to make me his happy meal. Jimmy Hall, even more so, since he purposely went out of his way to dive with sharks at any time of the day or night.

Fortunately, I've been blessed over the years, while working and playing in the ocean. I'd say I have a healthy fear regarding going into the water, I respect the ocean and it's creatures and I know the consequences regarding entering a wilderness with large wild animals.

We have many shark attacks and sightings here in Hawaii some having been fatal, however that's not going to keep me out of the water. In most instances the attacks have occurred as a result of mistaken identify.

It's unfortunate that this man died today, however, he was doing something he loved and had passion for.

Nobody is getting off this planet alive.

It was simply, his time to depart the planet.

Much Aloha to his family and friends.

Rick Doyle, Ko Olina, Hawaii.

[Rick D.]

I'm a former resident of Solana Beach and now a resident of Hawaii who swims, dives and surf's here in Hawaii on a daily basis.

I surfed Fletcher Cove in Solana Beach for 25 years where the shark attack occurred today. I swam offshore alone, in the same vicinity as the shark attack in both the early morning and late afternoon for 25 years while training for my surfing water photography. I never had any problems with sharks there.

I've swam, surfed, scuba dived and filmed surfing from the water for 30 years in San Diego, Northern California's Red Triangle, Hawaii, Mexico, the Caribbean, South Pacific and many more remote shark infested waters. While filming, I've sighted sharks and been chased out of the water on numerous occasions by both sharks and large bull seals, but never in Southern California. The sharks that chased us were feeding on local fish and not us. The bull seals were being protective of their mates.

I had the privilege to meet film maker and shark expert Jimmy Hall here in Hawaii shortly before he died in 2007. I was invited to dive both in and out of a shark cage on Oahu's North Shore with a variety of sharks, mostly Galapagos. After doing so, I left the water with a whole new understanding about sharks.

Jimmy Hall, was a celebrity in Hawaii, running Hawaii Shark Encounters and defending the always maligned reputation of sharks. He was passionate about the environment, the ocean, and the aquatic life below the surface. He became well known around the world when he swam and videotaped the first-ever Great White Shark off Haleiwa, Hawaii. Jimmy Hall's stated many times, "the sharks don't want us".

Ironically, Jimmy Hall was killed in a tragic accident north of the Arctic Circle. Jimmy was in a very remote area near Sam Fjord on Baffin Island in Canada filming a documentary on the region that included base jumping from the incredibly harsh mountains. Jimmy died during one of those base jumps. The area is so remote, it's only accessible by plane, snowmobile, and then dogsled.

Jimmy was embarking on a new career. Having just been chosen as a host for Shark Week on DISCOVERY CHANNEL, he had just completed part of the series in the Bahamas. He was scheduled to head to the Great Barrier Reef off Australia in June, to swim with Great White sharks. The series was to air in late summer 2007.

Ultimately, Jimmy died doing what he loved. In fact, in an interview on CNN he summed up his "adventurous" lifestyle: "I'd rather blow up than rust."

I've personally, been there for the taking over the years if any shark had wanted to make me his happy meal. Jimmy Hall, even more so, since he purposely went out of his way to dive with sharks at any time of the day or night.

Fortunately, I've been blessed over the years, while working and playing in the ocean. I'd say I have a healthy fear regarding going into the water, I respect the ocean and it's creatures and I know the consequences regarding entering a wilderness with large wild animals.

We have many shark attacks and sightings here in Hawaii some having been fatal, however that's not going to keep me out of the water. In most instances the attacks have occurred as a result of mistaken identify.

It's unfortunate that this man died today, however, he was doing something he loved and had passion for.

Nobody is getting off this planet alive.

It was simply, his time to depart the planet.

Much Aloha to his family and friends.

Rick Doyle, Ko Olina, Hawaii.

[jason]

It's unfortunate to here about the the death of the gentlemen ,but however we are in a world where there are still predators in the water,and we must take this into account whenever we are swimming.please respect the shark ,and the ocean, and understand this was not in vain the shark was just feeding.

[Larry]

With over 400 species of shak swimming the oceans of the world, you can guarantee that sharks are present in all regions of the ocean. When you enter the ocean, you do in fact become a potential part of the food chain. Luckily for most, you probably will not ever have to experiance what this unfortunate man went through. Sharks are actually fairly ratonal fish with six specific senses that help them to find their preffered prey. They of course make mistakes, which lead to shark bites. A true attack is very rare.

it is worth noting that of the 400 know types of sharks, only around 30 are considered potentially dangerous to man. Of those 30 only 6 are thought to be agressive. It appears as if Jaws! has done a number on us all, fueling a irrational fear with no understanding of the diversity of the shark family

Every year humans senslessly kill MILLIONS of sharks in an unsustainable manner called shark finning. Contrary to popular belief, sharks (like most large predatoory fish) populations have declined by 60-80% in the last 50 years. Sharks have a slow maturation rate and have differnt modes of reproduction than most fish. It has become far to easy for us to completly inialate other species, and we so don't understand the reprecussions. It is yet another example of a world run amuck!

I know there will be idiots that claim to want to wipe sharks out off of the planet, but I hope that most of you understand that sharks play a critical role in balanacing a system so complicated and important (the global oceans). We are all connected to the collapse of biodiversty and we will all in time suffer the same fate. I recomeed spending your time enjoying your life and living your dreams.

Oh yeah, for those of you who think anyone is seriously trying to ban water sports like surfing, wake up. It's just a bunch of local surfers who want to keep the crowds thin, they are playing on your irrational fears hoping that the lineup will not be as crowded. I understand where they are coming from, it is getting more and more crowded in the water. But using the sharks as a scapegoat is pretty ignorant. Instead of bitching and complaining about the crowds, educate them on the culture and the unwritten rules of the sport. Everone starts at somepoint, and were not all as cool as the little spoiled ass cali' kids who have nothng to do but surf all day. These punks think the are funny, but they are not considering a man died today. RIP-

[TE]

I am just curious..... do any of you people have jobs? Or lives? Or are you online being reactionary all day? You bunch of Rupert Murdoch drones! Seems like most of you need to get out of the house... and back to Sunset Cliffs.

[Vincent Mross]

Rob said:

"About note about statistics:

You hear people say things like "you stand more chance of being run over by a car" or "more chance of being struck by lightning, than being attacked by a shark".

Every member of the human population is subject to being run over by a car or struck by lightning. Only a very small percentage of the human population ever goes in the water, and smaller still is the percentage of the human population that surfs or swims 150 yards offshore.

So much for statistics."

Hey Rob,

Are you sure the shark bite statistics were based on the total population? Because if they were based on the number of people going in the water, then they are valid.

I surfed Sunset Cliffs today, and I heard about the attack when I got out of the water. My first thought was "Oh yeah, well how many people died in car accidents in the last 24 hours?" More than one I'm sure, and I can guarantee you it's no fun either way you go... Might as well enjoy it while you can. At least out in the water you're not endangering other drivers, which is what you'd have to do on the road to have even 10% as much fun.

[T]

Wow. I was cringing as I scanned through the comments, expecting a lynch-mob mentality toward the "mindless killing machines" that would supposedly devour us all if they could. I'm pleased to see that there are only a few ignorant or misinformed folks in the bunch so far. Glad to see lots of respect for the ocean, for surfing, for living, and for the deceased.

[jill]

It is a very sad tragedy that a man died today doing what he loved. From what I understand there is plenty of food for the sharks to feast on off the coast of California. Sharks don't generally attack humans and humans are certainly not their first choice for food. I believe it was a case of mistaken identity and the shark probably thought it was a group of seals. It is hard to believe that some of the comments above are serious. Post no surfing signs, really? Is this a joke or someone trying to make the surfing areas less crowded?

[joel]

live is a bitch, for sure some one is going to die on the freeway tomorrow and, we're all going to drive on it with in seconds of the death. Life is short enjoy it. we have a better chance of getting hit by a plane standing on land than eaten by a shark, and if you do get hit by a shark at least your doing what you love. don't panic enjoy life it's short, i feel horrible for his family rest and peace and I hope he's swimming in heaven.....

[brian]

WOW, I would normally read an article and continue "surfing the internet" but after reading some of these IDIOTIC comments, I couldn't resist but to add my own comment. These people that say "don't surf"," its the sharks home", are so caught up in the fear that News channel 4 says on how to live their lives. Keep listening to that news channel people, maybe the next headline will be "Don't go outside when it rains, this is Gods territory, and you WILL get struck by lightning, AND DIE!" There has been 2 shark deaths in the state of California since 2004. How many people have gone swimming or surfing in those 4 years? 342,476,987....wait, we have those idiots sitting on their couch, watching the latest breaking news, so that number goes down to 342,476,980. Thats better, cause we didn't want these IDIOTS in the water anyways. Stay at home, live the life the news anchors tell you, and die unhappy and in fear. No sweat off my balls!!!

[Jawshark.com]

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Dr. Martin's family at this time. The swimmers with him should be commended for going back to assist him to shore. What would you do?

[We Share Our World]

Lots of to-and-fro comments. There's already been an underwater attack. Why the attacks here in cyber-space? All of our heartfelt thoughts go to this good man's family. Aside from being a Doctor, this man is also a retired vet. Clearly, he was very fit, inspired by life, youth and our world. A man whom, we daresay, we leave an irreplaceable gap in his loving family. God chose His hour.

The most absurd thing I read was "helicopters" and coast guards are "hunting for the shark". Pray... and THEN what? Kill it? What about a fair trial? LEAVE the shark alone. It's *US* humans that have to be careful, NOT the shark. If you want to train early in the morning, when sharks are known to feed - for goodness sake put up nets or something. Otherwise - is Natural Roulette, because the Russians have nothing to do with these odds.

We humans kill wild animals (or domesticated animals we train to be wild, such as deplorable dog-fights) when they "break free" of caged or confined areas. Take Rocky, the Grizzly Bear ... the list is long. For the love of God, WHY are we killing these animals after their UNNATURAL confinement? They should be caught asap to protect others - but shot with tranquilizer darts to sedate them before being moved to a reasonable Zoo for the rest of their lives.

To put them back in the wild is equally cruel. Their own will kill them. We're doing enough damage to the environment with our selfishly evolved lifestyles. We should respect the heavy hearts of Dr. Dave's family ... but never blame the wild. Learn from it. Too call each other "offensive names" here is just warped.

Whatever happens - be safe, be alert but also be considerate; life is truly stunning - and short. Peace...

[John]

"We Share Our World" You are a typicall fricking Bleeding Liberal... get a grip.. if they happen to find the Great White close to the same area, better kill the beast... just one of hundereds of thousands, but one that could very likely kill another human... I have nothing against the shark... what it did was natural...but I'll be damned if I'll ever put an animal before a human life...
I'll be in San Diego and LA area in July... bringing my wife and kids... plan on surfing, it's been years,but I will never let fear control my freedom to do what I choose...
By the way, you surfers out there... might be time to go back for a few more classes in Engish grammar and spelling....
John/ Texas

[NotASurferHonest]

I feel compelled to reiterate and expound upon a point that has been made in several posts. Surfing is very dangerous. According to the Shark Research Committee attacks are up 900% in the 21st century. Further, I've read that shark researchers off the Farallon Islands found that surfboards provided the best vehicles for baiting the great whites which they were studying. I should also add that the materials of which surfboards are made are not at all environmentally friendly. Ergo, surfing is bad, very bad. Don't surf.

While I am on this point, land shark attacks are up 1300% on people waiting in line to get into Father's Office. If you see a line out front, just keep going. Very dangerous.

On a closing note, my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Dave.

[bonzer]

Why,why,why,does this so called gang type of activity continue. This man was clearly swimming and seemed to be minding his own business and not visibly taunting the shark. Like I said before who swims in a shark infested zone with a sausage in his pants? Was this another stupid stunt from the "Jackass crew"?We have to stop these guys to protect our youth from copying this type of reckless behavior.

[Hillary]

Obviously the comments on here about not swimming in the ocean were posted by people who didn't grow up on the California beaches.

[GINAXOXO]

I THINK ITS TERRIBLE...PEOPLE NEED TO B E AWARE OF THE FACT THAT SHARK ATTACKS DO HAPPEN, AND YOU CANT CONTROL IT. YOU CAN PREVENT IT THOUGH. I WOULD SAY AVOID THE WATER AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE. FOR SAFETY. YOU CAN NEVER BE TOO CAREFUL.
I ALSO THINK THAT SOME PEOPLE JUST WANT TO BE IGNORANT BECAUSE EVERYONE KNOWS THAT THERE ARE SHARKS IN THE BEACH. COME ON NOW, HAVE SOME BRAIN.

[sara]

ok who would ever ban surfing.iam 13 and i swim all the time i train and have a nutritionist and personal trainer iam going to go to the olympics, and i dont think that shark attacks should stop people from doing that, shark attacks were ment to teach people that when you swim or surf or do anything in the ocean you are stepping out of your habitat and into sharks habitat fishs habitat etc......
when you go into the ocean you are going at your own risk you know and i know that other creatures breed, FEED, and HUNT there its there world not ours and we should respect that. My best wishes go out to all the families and friends that were affected by shark attacks or death in general.

[Carcan]

K. U guys r craz. The shark was just trin to get food. He obiviously didn't know wat he was doin. HE'S A Shark FOR CRIN OUT LOUD!!!
Sharks do that.
You take the risk when you step in the water.
Enjoy yourself have fun, who knows when God will call you!

GOD BLESS!!!!!!!!!!
CRT

[Zach]

about 42,000 people die annually in car accidents IN AMERICA, should you not drive

there are only about 50 attacks WORLDWIDE

YOU CAN"T LET FEAR RULE YOUR LIFE!

and imagine the holocausts humans cause every month, deaths in the west bank, executions of babies in china, sex slaves in the Philippines and I dont blame anyone, it happens