Shark Attack Strikes Again at New Smyrna Beach: Surfer Injured But Resilient

New Smyrna Beach, Florida, USA - On July 6, 2025, a 40-year-old man named Matt Bender from Winter Park found himself at the wrong end of a shark bite while surfing at New Smyrna Beach, Florida. The incident unfolded around 3 p.m. local time, as Matt took to the waves in this notorious location, often celebrated—and dreaded—for its shark encounters. According to RTL, the shark latched onto his right forearm before letting go. Fortunately, Matt was able to make it back to shore and received immediate medical assistance.

Friends shared updates on Facebook, alleviating initial concerns by confirming that Matt’s injuries were non-life-threatening and he is recovering well. “He did not lose a limb,” they noted, emphasizing that their friend will be back in the water once he heals. His determination to continue surfing at New Smyrna Beach, despite this frightening event, is a testament to the thrill that this beach offers to wave riders. Surfers here are acutely aware of the risks, with many even taking a moment to pray before heading into the water.

The Shark Attack Capital

New Smyrna Beach has gained notoriety as the „Shark Attack Capital“ of the world, a title it has held since 2024. The International Shark Attack File (ISAF) records an alarming history of shark incidents in this area, logging a total of 361 unprovoked attacks since 1837, with 12 fatalities occurring between 2010 and 2024. In fact, as documented by USA Today, Matt’s encounter marks the second shark-related incident reported in Florida for this year alone. The first involved a 9-year-old girl in Boca Grande on June 11, who suffered severe injuries and nearly lost her hand.

The numbers paint a striking picture: in 2022, Florida saw a total of 47 unprovoked shark attacks, which unfortunately resulted in four fatalities, including one on U.S. soil. The global average typically hovers around 65 reported shark attacks annually, with six of those proving to be fatal. While these statistics might cause trepidation for some, they do not seem to deter the many surfers flocking to Florida’s coastlines in search of that perfect wave.

As Matt Bender continues his recovery, both he and many others remain undeterred by the dark shadow of shark encounters. Surfing, it seems, will forever be a dance with danger at New Smyrna Beach, where the thrill of the ocean outweighs fear. After all, when it comes to riding the waves, there’s something to be said for pushing past the perils and embracing the thrill of the ride.