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- Minnesota woman killed in US Virgin Islands shark attack (foxnews.com)
Minnesota Woman Dies in Tragic Shark Attack in U.S. Virgin Islands
**ST. CROIX, U.S.
Virgin Islands** – A vacation to the beautiful beaches of St. Croix turned into a horrific tragedy on Thursday afternoon when a 56-year-old Minnesota woman, Arlene Lillis, died after a shark attack.
The incident, which resulted in the loss of her arm, occurred at Dorcsh Beach, prompting an immediate response from emergency services.
Authorities confirmed that Ms. Lillis was pronounced dead following the attack.
The U.S. Virgin Islands Police Department reported receiving multiple 911 calls just before 4:30 p.m., alerting them to a woman being attacked by a shark.
The incident unfolded approximately an hour and a half before sunset.
Marine units, fire crews, and emergency medical personnel were swiftly dispatched to the scene. Fire officials tragically confirmed that Ms.
Lillis had lost an arm during the encounter and later succumbed to her injuries. While initial reports suggested a potential second victim, St.
Croix Rescue conducted a thorough search of the beach perimeter and found no other individuals.
Details surrounding the attack, including the type of shark involved and what may have precipitated the incident, have not yet been released by police.
Governor Albert Bryan Jr. expressed his profound condolences in a statement, saying, “Our hearts are with the family and loved ones of the victim, and with everyone who witnessed this tragedy. We have been briefed on the information known at this time, and we are grateful to the bystanders who acted immediately to render aid and to the first responders who worked urgently and bravely in an effort to save her life.”
Lieutenant Governor Tregenza A. Roach echoed these sentiments, extending gratitude to both the first responders and the brave individuals who offered assistance at the scene. “In moments like this, we are reminded how quickly life can change,” Roach noted.
The investigation into this devastating incident is ongoing. This tragic event serves as a somber reminder of the inherent risks associated with ocean activities, even in seemingly serene environments.
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