Introduction to the Incident
A shark bit a swimmer on a leg and a foot as he swam from Catalina Island to the mainland in the early hours of Tuesday, Sept. 30.
About 12 miles out from Catalina, the man was bit by a three- to four-foot white shark, who “nipped” at him and swam away, Shaun Corby, a Los Angeles Fire Department fire boat pilot said.
The Catalina Channel Swim
The swim is popular among long-distance swimmers, Corby said. A dive boat, the Bottom Scratcher, that was pacing the swim, left Catalina just after 1 a.m. and transferred the injured swimmer, a man approximately 50 to 55 years old, to a Los Angeles Fire Department boat.
Injuries and Response
The swimmer’s injuries were not life-threatening. His leg was wrapped and he was taken to a hospital.
“Its a super-rare incident,” Corby said. “Shark bites and stuff are pretty minimal out here.”
Shark Incident Statistics
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s statistics show that there are typically less than three shark incidents in California each year.
The swim from Catalina Island to the mainland is known as the Catalina Channel swim and is roughly 20 miles, typically started by swimmers at midnight to avoid afternoon winds, according to the Catalina Channel Swimming Federation.
Incident Details
Originally Published: September 30, 2025 at 10:45 AM PDT
Conclusion
The shark incident during the Catalina Channel swim, although rare, serves as a reminder of the potential dangers that long-distance swimmers face. Fortunately, the swimmer’s injuries were not life-threatening, and he received prompt medical attention.
FAQs
What happened to the swimmer?
The swimmer was bitten by a three- to four-foot white shark on his leg and foot while swimming from Catalina Island to the mainland.
How common are shark incidents in California?
According to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, there are typically less than three shark incidents in California each year.
What is the Catalina Channel swim?
The Catalina Channel swim is a roughly 20-mile swim from Catalina Island to the mainland, popular among long-distance swimmers.
Were the swimmer’s injuries life-threatening?
No, the swimmer’s injuries were not life-threatening, and he was taken to a hospital for treatment.
