A Minnesota woman has died after losing her arm in a shark attack in the U.S. Virgin Islands on Thursday.
According to the Virgin Islands Police Department, the incident happened at Dorcsh Beach in St. Croix around 4:28 p.m., after multiple 911 calls reported a woman being bitten by a shark. Marine units, firefighters, and emergency medical teams rushed to the scene.
Authorities confirmed the woman suffered the loss of her arm during the attack and later died from her injuries. A search of the area was conducted after reports of a possible second victim, but no one else was found.
The victim was identified as 56-year-old Arlene Lillis of Minnesota.
Christopher Carroll, a nurse and former lifeguard staying at a nearby hotel, said he heard screams and ran to the shore. He swam out to help and realized it was a shark attack when he saw heavy blood in the water. He described severe injuries to her left arm and said he comforted her while bringing her back to the beach.
U.S. Virgin Islands Governor Albert Bryan Jr. and Lieutenant Governor Tregenza A. Roach issued a joint statement offering condolences to the family and thanking bystanders and first responders for their swift actions.
Police say the investigation is ongoing.