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Surfer Attacked by Shark off Northern California Coast

1/18/2026

49 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

A shark attacked Tommy Civik, a surfer, off the Northern California coast near Gualala on January 13, 2026.
The attack followed Civik's entry into the water, about 150 feet from shore.
The shark bit Civik's board in half, threw him, and caused puncture wounds to his thigh.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is investigating, using DNA from the wounds and analyzing Civik's wetsuit and board.

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Story summary

A shark attacked Tommy Civik, a surfer, off the Northern California coast near Gualala on January 13, 2026.
The attack followed Civik's entry into the water, about 150 feet from shore.
The shark bit Civik's board in half, threw him, and caused puncture wounds to his thigh.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is investigating, using DNA from the wounds and analyzing Civik's wetsuit and board.