NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Fla. – An 18-year-old surf teacher is recovering within the hospital after a shark bit his foot whereas he was browsing off New Smyrna Seashore, an space usually dubbed the shark chew capital of the world.

What we all know:

Sam Hollis, an 18-year-old surf teacher, was bitten on the foot by a shark whereas browsing off New Smyrna Seashore, Florida — an space identified for its frequent shark encounters.

Sam Hollis, an 18-year-old surf teacher, was bitten on the foot by a shark whereas browsing off New Smyrna Seashore, Florida

The incident occurred whereas he was within the water with a camper. The shark dragged him 10 to fifteen toes earlier than he was in a position to break away. Hollis stays hospitalized after present process surgical procedure however is predicted to recuperate.

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Sam Hollis, an 18-year-old surf teacher, was bitten on the foot by a shark whereas browsing off New Smyrna Seashore, Florida

Sam Hollis, an 18-year-old surf teacher, was bitten on the foot by a shark whereas browsing off New Smyrna Seashore, Florida

What we do not know:

Particulars akin to the kind of shark concerned, how rapidly emergency providers responded, and whether or not the camper he was with witnessed or was impacted by the incident stay unclear. It’s additionally unknown how lengthy his restoration will take or if any long-term results are anticipated.

The backstory:

Hollis has been browsing since childhood and now teaches browsing in New Smyrna Seashore. Town holds the unofficial title of “shark chew capital of the world” as a result of its historical past of frequent however usually non-fatal encounters.

New Smyrna Seashore is a identified hotspot for shark exercise. Native seashore security officers report that is the fourth shark chew in Volusia County in 2025, elevating continued issues over swimmer and surfer security throughout peak summer season months.

What they’re saying:

Hollis was out within the water on Friday, when he mentioned the shark got here out of nowhere.

“It felt clamped after which it form of felt sizzling due to the enamel. After which it simply form of began pulling. It is virtually like, um, a canine with a toy in its mouth going like, you realize, like that,” Hollis recalled. “I used to be kicking at it after I spotted it had me in its mouth. I used to be like, ‘Yeah, get this factor away from me!’”

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Hollils mentioned the shark tried to swim away.

“But it surely nonetheless like had my foot in its mouth for a great little bit. And I imply, clearly they’re quick.”

Regardless of the traumatic occasion, Hollis maintains a optimistic outlook and mentioned he will not cease browsing.