Just after 10am Sunday morning a lifeguard at Smith Point County Park was operating at a training drill when he was attacked by a 4 to 5 foot long shark. The victim was assisted by other lifeguards taking part in the drill and safely brought back to shore.
The veteran lifeguard was treated and released with only stitches luckily, according to Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone. Officials closed the beach along with Cupsogue County Park located miles east of Smith Point.
The water was searched using drones, jet skis, paddleboards and boats, as well as park employees from the shoreline. The water remained off limits to swimmers but is expected to reopen on Monday when large 4th of July crowds are expected.
