A 9-year-old girl named Leah Lendel was severely injured by a shark while snorkeling off Boca Grande, Florida, on June 11, 2025, marking the area's first shark bite incident in two decades.

Leah Lendel's life changed dramatically after a shark, believed to be a bull shark, attacked her just 4 feet from her family, resulting in severe injuries that nearly severed her right hand. Emergency responders quickly intervened, and she was airlifted to Tampa General Hospital where she underwent a six-hour surgery. This incident not only raises concerns about shark interactions in Florida, particularly during mating and tarpon season, but also highlights the financial burdens faced by families in such emergencies, as Leah's family, currently without medical insurance, has started a GoFundMe to cover her medical expenses.

The shark bite occurred around noon, as Leah was enjoying a day of snorkeling with her family. Reports suggest that she was within close proximity to her mother and siblings when the incident took place, highlighting the sudden nature of the attack.

Upon surfacing from the water, Leah screamed, and her mother immediately noticed the shocking injury. Witnesses reported that her right hand was covered in blood, prompting urgent action from those nearby.

Fortunately, emergency help was rendered by some construction workers present in the area. They acted swiftly, wrapping Leah's hand in a towel to staunch the bleeding and contacted emergency services, ensuring that Leah received prompt medical attention.

Emergency responders airlifted Leah to Tampa General Hospital, where she was treated for her life-threatening injuries. Medical personnel assessed her condition and determined that she needed a six-hour surgery to attempt to save her right hand.

After the extensive surgery, Leah was reported to be stable and optimistic about her recovery. The family has expressed gratitude for the quick actions of bystanders and first responders, noting that such interventions likely played a pivotal role in Leah's survival.

In addition to the immediate medical concern, Leah's family is facing significant financial challenges due to the lack of medical insurance. To help offset the costs associated with Leah's treatment and recovery, they have set up a GoFundMe page, hoping to garner support from the community.

The shark attack has drawn attention not only for its severity but also because it is the first recorded shark bite of a swimmer in Boca Grande in twenty years. Experts suggest that the rise in such incidents could correlate with specific seasonal behaviors of sharks, particularly during mating and tarpon season when shark activity typically increases.

Local authorities, as well as marine biologists, are now urging more extensive education and awareness regarding shark safety in water activities. They emphasize the importance of vigilance while swimming in areas known for shark activity.

As Leah begins her recovery journey, which may include physical rehabilitation and emotional healing, her family is hopeful for her return to normalcy. Friends, community members, and even strangers have begun coming forward to offer support during this difficult time.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of wildlife interactions. While shark attacks are infrequent, the reality remains that awareness and precaution are essential for beachgoers and snorkelers alike.