Shark attack suspected as triathlete goes missing in California PHOTO

A 55-year-old triathlete and “exceptional swimmer” is feared to have been attacked by a shark off the coast of Monterey, California, authorities and witnesses report. Erica Fox, a longtime member of the informal swim group Kelp Krawlers, went missing during a weekly swim in Pacific Grove on December 21.

The group reportedly observed a “large splash” they feared was an attacking shark. While the other swimmers returned safely to shore, Fox did not, New York Post reports.

The search for Fox has since been suspended after more than 15 hours of operations covering over 84 square nautical miles. Police have not confirmed whether she was the victim of a shark attack, and the investigation is ongoing.

“She was an extraordinary athlete. When something like that happens it’s either because the water is too cold or a shark. Because she’s such an experienced swimmer I knew what happened,” said a friend and former member of the swim group.

“She was very competitive, did triathlons. She was a very good soul, beat all the guys. She was very competitive,” the friend added.

Fox, known for her blond hair and blue eyes, frequently shared her athletic achievements on social media, posting images of herself crossing triathlon finish lines and standing on podiums wearing medals. One post showed a diver swimming peacefully alongside a great white shark, captioned: “This is the most DANGEROUS ANIMAL in the world, and by his side, a SHARK swims peacefully.”

The US Coast Guard extended condolences to Fox’s family, friends, and loved ones. “The Coast Guard extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones affected by this tragic incident,” said Capt. Jordan Baldueza.

Lover’s Point, the site of the incident, was also the location of a shark attack in 2022, when 62-year-old Steve Bruemmer was bitten on the leg and saved by two stand-up paddle-boarders, according to Monterey County Now.

Kelp Krawlers, described by those familiar with the group as “a group of like-minded people,” regularly swam at Lover’s Point. A former member said, “She’ll be missed.”

The case continues to be investigated, with authorities urging caution in local waters as they review the circumstances surrounding Fox’s disappearance.

By Vafa Guliyeva