12-Year-Old Girl Survives Shark Bite on Hilton Head Island

News Summary

A 12-year-old girl was airlifted after a shark bite incident on Hilton Head Island, raising alarm among beachgoers. First responders provided immediate treatment, and while the injuries were severe, they were classified as non-life-threatening. This attack follows a recent similar incident, highlighting concerns over shark encounters in popular tourist areas. Local officials are urging caution for families enjoying summer activities at the beach.

South Carolina – A 12-year-old girl was airlifted to a medical facility after suffering a shark bite on Hilton Head Island on Tuesday, June 17, 2025. The incident took place around 12 p.m. local time in the Sea Pines area, which is known for its stunning beaches that attract numerous visitors each summer.

According to authorities, the girl sustained a significant leg injury consistent with lacerations typically associated with shark bites. Witnesses reported the attack as alarming, raising concerns among summer beachgoers who frequent the area. Although the girl experienced considerable blood loss, her injuries were thankfully classified as non-life-threatening.

First responders from Shore Beach Services and Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue promptly attended to the girl, administering immediate onsite treatment before she was airlifted to a hospital located in Savannah, Georgia, approximately 40 miles from the incident site. The victim’s identity has not been disclosed to the public.

This incident marks a disturbing trend, being the second recorded shark bite involving a child in the past week. On June 11, 2025, a 9-year-old girl named Leah Lendel was bitten by a shark while snorkeling off the coast of Boca Grande, Florida, and narrowly avoided a life-altering injury to her hand. Leah underwent an extensive six-hour surgery and spent several days recovering in the intensive care unit as a result of her injuries.

Despite these recent events, shark attacks remain relatively rare. Data from 2024 indicated there were 47 unprovoked shark attacks worldwide, of which four resulted in fatalities. In South Carolina, shark attacks are infrequent, averaging about four incidents a year. The last recorded fatal shark attack in South Carolina occurred in the 1840s, indicating a long history where the state has not seen fatal encounters with sharks.

Hilton Head Island is recognized as a popular vacation hotspot, welcoming thousands of tourists each year. The area is home to various shark species, including bull sharks and tiger sharks. Local officials recommend that beachgoers exercise caution and stay vigilant while enjoying the water, particularly during the busy summer season. Families are advised to keep a close watch on children and maintain awareness of their surroundings during beach visits.

As of now, the recent incident involving the 12-year-old girl may very well represent the first reported shark encounter of 2025 in South Carolina. Following this occurrence, both locals and tourists are reminded of the importance of safety protocols when swimming or participating in water sports in shark-populated waters.

Officials are actively monitoring the beach conditions and reiterating the significance of adhering to safety guidelines to minimize the risk of shark encounters, especially during the peak summer months when the waters are most crowded.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• People: 12-Year-Old Girl Attacked by Shark in South Carolina
• Greenville Online: Shark Bites in South Carolina
• WBTV: Person Airlifted After Shark Bite
• CBS News: Shark Attack in Hilton Head
• USA Today: Shark Attack at Sea Pines Beach
• Wikipedia: Shark Attack
• Google Search: Shark Bite Safety Guidelines
• Google Scholar: Shark Attacks
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Shark
• Google News: Shark Attacks 2025

Author: HERE Greenwood