A tragic shark attack has claimed the life of 44-year-old Lauren Erickson Van Wart, a newlywed and math editor from Lowell, Massachusetts. The incident occurred while Van Wart was paddleboarding with a male relative less than a mile off the western end of New Providence Island in the Bahamas. The Royal Bahamas Police Force confirmed her identity and provided details of the attack in a news release.
According to reports, a lifeguard on duty witnessed the attack and quickly went out on a rescue boat to retrieve both individuals. Despite administering CPR, Van Wart had suffered serious injuries to the right side of her body, including the upper hip region and her right upper limb. Emergency personnel who arrived at the scene determined that she had no vital signs of life.
Curriculum Associates CEO Rob Waldron expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Van Wart, describing her as a beloved member of their math editorial team. Her dedication to students and educators was evident in her work, and she was committed to improving learning outcomes for all. The Curriculum Associates community mourns this tragedy and extends their deepest condolences and support to Van Wart’s husband and family.
Shark attacks in the Bahamas are not unheard of, with a couple of shark-related fatalities reported in the past five years. Gavin Naylor, program director of the International Shark Attack File in Florida, explained that the Bahamas has a large tourist population, and many people engage in activities like fishing or diving with sharks. This acclimates the sharks to human presence, making them less cautious. While most shark bites are accidental, Naylor noted that there are instances where sharks deliberately target individuals.
The Bahamas is home to approximately 30 to 40 shark species, with the Caribbean reef shark, bull shark, tiger shark, and blacktip shark having the highest bite frequency. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack, and experts stress the importance of caution when engaging in water activities in shark-populated areas.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the risks associated with aquatic activities and the need for individuals to be aware of their surroundings. The loss of Lauren Erickson Van Wart has left a void in the lives of her loved ones and colleagues, highlighting the devastating impact of shark attacks.
