A Great White shark attacked a kayaker in Santa Cruz, California, on Tuesday morning, damaging the kayak but leaving the man uninjured.
The incident took place at a popular surf spot near West Cliff and Pelton Avenue, Santa Cruz Fire Department confirmed in a news release.
"A seasoned kayaker had his kayak attacked by a large shark about a quarter mile out from Steamer Lane. The kayaker was uninjured in the attack, but the kayak sustained extensive damage," the release said.
The victim has since been identified as a seasoned local kayaker, Steve Lawson.
Speaking about the incident to KSBW, Lawson explained that he was paddling in his kayak when he felt a sudden jolt.
"I saw the shark hanging onto the front end of my boat," he said, showing news reporters the foot-long bite on his craft and saying he believed the shark was a Great White. "I was swimming around for a bit and I panicked but he didn't come back, he wasn't interested in me."
Lawson was carrying a marine radio at the time and was able to call for help.
In response to the shark attack, Marine Safety staff and lifeguards will be monitoring beach access points at Main Beach, Cowell Beach and other beaches within a one-mile radius of the attack over the next four days.
Additionally, all beaches have been closed to any water activities until Saturday.
Santa Cruz Fire Chief, Jim Frawley, said in the news release that shark attacks of this nature were rare for the Santa Cruz County area.
"We are so thankful that the kayaker was uninjured," he said. "This is a reminder that swimming in the ocean does carry some risk and we encourage all swimmers, surfers, and kayakers to be mindful of their surroundings and follow directions of lifeguards and Marine Safety staff.”
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