A Mexican tourist survived a shark attack off the famous Cocos Island in Costa Rica. The man sustained facial injuries and had to make a dangerous emergency ascent after the animal also damaged his breathing tubes.
Attack at 30 meters depth
The incident occurred on Saturday around noon at the Roca Sucia dive site, about 30 meters below the water’s surface. The diver, in his early 40s, was bitten on the head and the left side of his face. Due to damaged equipment, he was forced to ascend quickly to the surface to prevent further injury.
Firefighters provided first aid on site: they stopped the bleeding, stabilized the patient, and prepared him for transport. As Cocos Island is over 500 kilometers from the mainland, the boat trip to Puntarenas takes around 36 to 40 hours. Only there can the man be taken to a hospital.
Rare attacks in protected marine paradise
Witnesses reported that the shark likely reacted to a tagging activity and was not aggressive. The species responsible for the attack is still unclear. Thanks to his diving mask, the man’s injuries were less severe than they could have been.
Cocos Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its diverse underwater life, including large schools of hammerhead sharks and other shark species. Attacks are extremely rare: the last fatal incident occurred in 2017, when a US tourist was killed by a tiger shark. Park rangers emphasize that dives remain safe when safety rules are followed – for example, by keeping a distance and avoiding sudden movements that could startle the animals.
Condition stable – investigations ongoing
The injured diver remains in stable condition and, despite the incident, is in good spirits. Authorities plan to review safety measures in the protected area and advise visitors to always dive with experienced guides and follow the latest guidance from local operators.
