Canadian Tourist Loses Both Hands in Shark Attack While Taking Photos in Turks and Caicos
A 55-year-old Canadian woman has suffered devastating injuries after being attacked by a bull shark while vacationing in Turks and Caicos. The incident occurred on February 7, when the woman, who remains unnamed, was attempting to take photographs in shallow waters.
According to the Turks and Caicos Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR), the woman was standing in hip-deep, clear water when a seven-foot shark approached her, bumping into her legs before circling back and biting her thigh. When she raised her hands to protect herself, the shark severed both—one at the wrist and the other at mid-forearm.
Her husband, Ralph Chevarie, immediately rushed to her aid, wrestling the shark away and shielding her from further attacks. He then helped her to shore, where she collapsed.
The victim was initially treated at Cheshire Hall Medical Centre in Providenciales before being airlifted back to Canada for further surgery and recovery.
Her brother-in-law, Al Chevarie, has launched a GoFundMe campaign to support the couple as they navigate the financial and emotional toll of the tragedy. The fundraiser has already raised over $24,600 of its $35,000 goal. In his plea for assistance, Al highlighted Ralph’s 30 years of service in the Canadian Armed Forces, including tours in Afghanistan, Bosnia, and Haiti, and urged Canadians to help them in their time of need.
Following the attack, Turks and Caicos authorities temporarily closed the beach and later reopened it on February 9, stating that the shark had moved into deeper waters. Officials have since issued a public advisory, warning swimmers to remain cautious, follow local guidelines, avoid murky waters, and never attempt to engage with or feed marine wildlife.
Shark attacks in Turks and Caicos are extremely rare, with only one unprovoked, non-fatal incident reported last year, according to the Florida Museum of Natural History’s International Shark Attack File. However, this tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of marine life and the importance of exercising caution in the ocean.