Shark Bite Alert: New Smyrna Beach Surfer Hospitalized After Attack

New Smyrna Beach, USA - The shimmering waters off New Smyrna Beach witnessed yet another harrowing incident on July 6, 2025, when a 40-year-old man from Winter Park found himself the latest victim of a shark bite. Although the bite occurred on his right forearm, the injuries were fortunately non-life-threatening, and he was quickly transported for medical care.
Florida, often proclaimed the shark bite capital of the world, has once again established its reputation, with this incident marking the third registered shark bite in Volusia County for 2023. The first incident of the year took place in the very same waters of New Smyrna Beach.

The species of shark involved remains a mystery, but blacktip sharks are commonly cited as the culprits in many of the area’s bites. According to News-Journal, New Smyrna Beach is infamous for its high frequency of shark encounters. The unique environmental conditions here—including a surf break created by the sandbar structure around the Ponce de Leon inlet—make it a prime location for potential shark bites.

The Shark Bite Capital

Florida’s waters have earned the title of the world’s shark bite capital due to a combination of factors. With a steady influx of surfers, swimmers, and other water enthusiasts, the state has seen an uptick in shark-related incidents. In fact, Sharksider underscores that Florida has recorded numerous bites this year, one notable case involving a 9-year-old girl left with severe injuries while snorkeling earlier in June. Such events lead many to ponder the delicate balance between enjoying the ocean and the risk posed by its inhabitants.

Weather and seasonal changes can induce behavioral shifts in sharks, and some species, like the blacktip shark, are known to frequent these waters during certain times of the year. With nutrient-rich waters due to the nearby Ponce Inlet outflow, it’s easy to see why these creatures might be drawn to the area as well.

Recent Shark Incident Overview

This isn’t the first instance of shark activity in the vicinity this year. Earlier in 2022, a 28-year-old man was bitten while surfing in New Smyrna Beach, marking another reminder of the ever-present risk for watergoers.
Statistically, Volusia County has logged several shark bites yearly, making it a hotbed of interest for both surfers and marine biologists.

• Additional notable incidents include:
• March 9, 2023: A 21-year-old from New Jersey bitten while fishing.
• March 13, 2023: A 20-year-old man bitten while surfing.
• June 30, 2022: A girl suffered a severe bite while scalloping, leading to amputation.

USA Today elaborates that the incidents have heightened awareness regarding safety measures in water, as many continue to flock to the sun-kissed beaches of Florida despite the shark population thriving in these waters. While locals and visitors continue to enjoy what the coast has to offer, the ever-looming presence of sharks reminds us all that nature, in all its beauty, requires a healthy respect.

As summer unfolds and more beachgoers venture out for sun and surf, the conversation around shark safety takes center stage. Staying informed, swimming with caution, and respecting the marine ecosystem are key steps in enjoying the Florida coast while minimizing risks.

The waters of New Smyrna Beach may be inviting, but they hold stories that serve as stark reminders of the natural powers at play beneath the surface.