Story perspectives

California Sees Record Shark Incidents, Triathlete Missing

1/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

In 2025, California recorded ten shark-related incidents, the highest annual total according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
The ten incidents exceed the previous high of nine in 2017.
Erica Fox, a triathlete, disappeared while swimming during one incident, with witnesses reporting a shark near her body.
Tommy Civik, a surfer, survived a shark bite near Gualala.
Despite the spike, actual injuries remained rare, with only three injuries reported in 2025.

1 of 1

Story summary

In 2025, California recorded ten shark-related incidents, the highest annual total according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
The ten incidents exceed the previous high of nine in 2017.
Erica Fox, a triathlete, disappeared while swimming during one incident, with witnesses reporting a shark near her body.
Tommy Civik, a surfer, survived a shark bite near Gualala.
Despite the spike, actual injuries remained rare, with only three injuries reported in 2025.