Skip to Content

Spearfisherman Stable After Florida Shark Attack

Jose Abreu lying on hospital bed. Image by WPLG Local 10 via YouTube

It was in Miami’s Florida Key where spearfishermen Jose Abreu was bitten three times with his family and friends only meters away. The culprit? None other than a Bull Shark.

An apex predator, these species are known for their aggression and ability to ravage prey in seconds, insinuating that Mr.Abreu, who is currently recovering in Miami hospital, is a very lucky man. And, if it wasn’t for his friend’s heroism, the ending could have been fatal.

Where Was He Bitten?

Bite marks from shark. Image by WPLG Local 10 via YouTube

He suffered near catastrophic bites to the shoulder, chest, and right leg, later saying, ‘It was too fast, too fast, I thought it was the end for me.’ There are prevalent and deep bite marks in each of these areas.

How his Friend Saved his Life

bull shark
Bull Shark. Image by Andaman via depositphotos.com

During the commotion, a friend of Mr. Abreu instinctively jumped out of the boat, shooting his spear gun at the Bull Shark in an attempt to scare it away. Fortunately, it worked, but near-fatal blows had already taken place. It was time to rush to the hospital.

How Did He Get to the Hospital?

Helicopter flying over the ocean. Image by Pifagor via Depositphotos.

First responders quickly entered the scene, eventually airlifting him to Miami Hospital. The combination of his friend’s bravery and alertness, with the quickness of the medical staff, saved his life that day.

Is he in stable condition?

Atlantic near Faroe Islands seen from helicopter.
Atlantic near Faroe Islands seen from helicopter. Image by kallerna via Wikimedia

Yes. Surprisingly, he’s eager to recover and get back into the ocean.

About Bull Sharks

Bull sharks (Carcharhinus leucas) at Beqa shark dive. Fiji Photo by Amanderson

Bull Sharks are known for their aggressive behavior and are often considered one of the most dangerous sharks to humans. They can thrive in salt and freshwater, allowing them to roam in various bodies of water, including rivers and coastal areas.

Size of Bull Sharks

bull shark
Cruising in the Bahamas. Image by Divepics via Depositphotos.

Bull Sharks are relatively large, with females growing up to 11 feet and males up to 7 feet. They weigh as much as 500 pounds, making them powerful environmental predators.

Where Do Bull Sharks Roam?

Picture shows a Bulls shark at the Bahamas
Bulls shark in the Bahamas. Image by Divepics via Depositphotos.

Bull Sharks are found worldwide in warm, shallow waters along coasts and rivers. They are known to travel far upriver and can be found in freshwater and marine environments, making them unique among shark species.

Preventing Shark Attacks

Diver underwater with sharks. Photo by Judita Bagon.

Experts advise avoiding swimming or diving during dawn or dusk, staying in groups, and avoiding areas with known shark activity to minimize the risk of shark attacks. Using shark deterrent devices can also provide an extra layer of safety.

What to Do If Attacked

Shark swimming off the coast of Mexico. Image by izanbar via Depositphotos

In the rare event of a shark attack, try to defend yourself by targeting the shark’s eyes and gills, which are its most sensitive areas. Staying as calm as possible and getting out of the water quickly are crucial steps for survival.