Creatures of the Sea

Article by Ari Marsh:

First known shark attack fatality in North County, San Diego. Believed to be a 12-17 foot Great White. Early press conference footage shortly after attack, from Fletcher Cove in Solana Beach with Deputy Fire Chief, Mayor, and Lifeguard Captain. Victim was Dr. David Martin, 66 year old swimmer, April, 25, 2008.

It was a beautiful morning in North County, almost pristine, with warm weather and small, glassy surf. I was in Encinitas, near Moonlight Beach, when Coast Guard helicopters began flying up and down the coast broadcasting a shocking announcement. "There has been a fatal shark attack in the area. Exit the ocean immediately!" I was stunned, having lived most of my life by the ocean in Southern California, and being a surfer for the last 25 years, I've never experienced something like this. As the eerie helicopter announcements continued, surfers and swimmers evacuated, leaving this pristine morning strangely vacant. Details surfaced soon after, near the site of the attack in Solana Beach. Apparently, the attack happened at approximately 7:00 a.m, Friday morning, April 25, 2008, near a surf break known as Tabletops, near Fletcher Cove in Solana Beach. A group of strong swimmers in training for a triathlon were approximately 100-150 yards off the coast, when one of the men, 66 year old Dr. David Martin, a healthy, retired veterinarian, began screaming for help. His friends nearby him in the ocean described the attack as "absolutely ferocious." Dr. Martin was pulled to the shore by his friends in an attempt to save him, but died almost immediately. His injuries were reportedly very severe, leaving his legs "mangled." It is believed he died from loss of blood due to the extreme nature of the attack. Experts have estimated, based on examination of the wounds, the shark was a 12-17' Great White.This is the first ever fatal shark attack in North County San Diego history. During the last few days, there have also been reports of a baby shark in the nearby area, and several seal pups have appeared stranded on shore.County authorities have issued a 72 hour advisory for all swimmers and surfers to stay out of the water.Blessings go out to David Martin and his family and loved ones. Yes indeed, when we enter into the ocean, we enter a grand, immense wilderness that we still yet scarcely understand. Peace to all. Enjoy life, appreciate the moment, and savor what you have while you've got it.--Ari Marsh