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Fatal Shark Attack off St. Croix Leaves 56-Year-Old Minnesota Woman Dead

Officials are investigating the shark species after dismissing reports of a second victim.

Overview

  • The U.S. Virgin Islands government confirmed a swimmer was attacked Thursday off Dorsch Beach on St. Croix and died after being taken to a local clinic.
  • Media identified the victim as Arlene Lillis, 56, of Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, who reportedly spent winters on St. Croix.
  • A former lifeguard reached her in the water and described severe injuries to her left arm before she lost consciousness during the rescue.
  • Authorities and St. Croix Rescue searched for a rumored second victim for about an hour before determining the report was likely false.
  • Governor Albert Bryan Jr. offered condolences as officials said the species involved has not been determined and shark attacks in the territory are rare.