BOCA GRANTE, Fla. (WFLA) – Family vacation has been in a frightening direction after a 9-year-old girl was attacked by a shark in the waters off the coast of Boca Grande.
The Eagle 8 HD video showed calm, turquoise waters that turned Rearrendel’s family vacation into a nightmare.
The family says the 9-year-old girl recovers at Tampa Hospital after toresting a hand by a shark
“We saw the shark rushing in the water, and it was right behind her,” said witness Reinel Lugo. “We were trying to get her out…it was still chasing her.”
Lugo, who was nearby, jumped into action.
“Yes, I helped Little Leah get out of the water,” he said. “It was like someone was dead, and then I saw the shark and blood coming from her hands. I knew it was serious.”
Lugo also dialed 911. The urgency of his voice was evident in Cole.
“Is anyone injured by that shark?” the operator asked.
“Yes, the shark bit the little one’s arm,” replied Lugo.
“I hadn’t thought of it at all,” Lugo added. “It was all about kicking the kids out of the water.”
911 call released after a 9-year-old girl attacked by a shark in Florida Beach
The nearby construction workers also heard the screams and then hurried off.
“When I hear them screaming, ‘Help, help,’ and that’s when we run away and see the little girl crying,” he said. “Everyone was in shock.”
Deby Cassill, a marine biologist at the University of South Florida, said shark sightings could increase during this period.
“They are hungry during this time, and anything that moves or splatters draws attention,” she explained.
Cassill recommends families stick to busy beaches where sharks are unlikely to approach.
“I’m going to a beach with a large population of others,” she said. “It reduces the chances of meeting people.”
Leah Rendell remained hospitalized on Thursday, with her family waiting for her recovery. Leah’s family said they lost their hands in the attack. The surgeon was able to get his hands back after six hours of surgery.
The Rendell family provided the following statement Thursday night:
“We want to thank everyone who prays for our sweet Leah. We are grateful to everyone who was on the scene, to the quick response of everyone, to the construction workers and residents who are all about helping, and to all the doctors/nurses who do everything to help our girls.
Yesterday, Leah had a massive surgery on her hands (wrist and fingers). The doctor was able to get blood flow to her hands and fingers. She shows her movement with two fingers, but can’t feel the rest. Your doctor will do another procedure tomorrow to see if there is anything else to do.
The fact that Leah has attached all her fingers is already a testimony. It’s truly a miracle to see your wrists hanging from your skin alone and then get blood flow to all your hands and fingers.
Keep praying for our families, our God is a miraculous worker. ”
The Rendel family
