A striking new case of a shark-related injury at Sunset Beach, North Carolina, stirs concerns about marine life encounters during beach activities.
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The potential shark bite incident has heightened the debate around marine safety, urging authorities and beachgoers alike to stay vigilant.
On May 28, 2025, a 26-year-old man named Sean Barton experienced an alarming incident while swimming off Sunset Beach.
The episode occurred around 11 a.m., prompting an emergency call at 11:05 a.m. near the 31st Street access point.
The Sunset Beach Fire Department’s teams, including Beach Rescue, responded swiftly, providing immediate care as Barton was conscious and alert upon their arrival.
Barton, who was visiting from New Mexico, sustained a leg injury requiring 11 stitches, which a local doctor identified as a potential shark bite.
Family witnesses reported seeing a shark nearby after Barton described feeling intense pain during a wave ride.
“I just got done riding an epic wave and then felt a shark or something bite my leg, and at that moment I was like, I think I just got bit by a shark, and I didn’t see anything and I just kind of turned and immediately started running, tried to get into shore as quickly as I could,” Barton said.
Authorities swiftly took Barton to a hospital for further evaluation.
The full extent of his injuries remains undisclosed, but the swift medical response has been commended.
Despite the unnerving ordeal, Barton expressed determination to continue enjoying the ocean, albeit with increased caution.
“Marine life, including sharks, are natural inhabitants of these waters, and it’s crucial to take precautions to minimize potential risks,” officials said.
This incident has raised broader awareness among Sunset Beach visitors.
Officials issued advisories urging swimmers to remain vigilant and exercise caution due to the presence of marine life.
While no additional shark sightings have been reported, beachgoers are reminded that unprovoked shark incidents are relatively rare, with only 28 occurrences in the United States during 2024.
Swimmer recovering after being bitten by what family says was a shark at Sunset Beach, NC: "..I tried to get to the shore as quickly as I could". https://t.co/CTssbkCt7W #nc pic.twitter.com/8zHQasRlKJ
— Jon Evans (@JonEvansWECT) May 29, 2025
