A dead shark, reported to be a great white, washed up on a Suffolk county beach on Wednesday morning, according to CBS News. The shark’s carcass, believed to be approximately eight feet in length, was discovered on the sand at Dune Road in Quogue.
A local came across the rare sight around 9:30 a.m. and the state Department of Environmental Conservation confirmed the discovery to be a juvenile great white shark, the report stated. A photo attributed to the Quogue Village Police Department shows the ferocious-looking fish baring its razor-sharp teeth with its mouth agape.
However, the shark’s body washed back out to sea and has yet to be recovered, though authorities are hoping to attain it for testing and a necropsy. The shark sighting is one of many in recent weeks, including a number of Long Island incidents in which locals have been bitten by the oceanic predators.
Nevertheless, experts continue to point out that the increased shark activity is a sign of healthy oceans and ocean life. Despite the reassurance, Gov. Kathy Hochul called for heightened protocols and additional safety measures on Monday.
“As New Yorkers and visitors alike head to our beautiful Long Island beaches to enjoy the summer, our top priority is their safety,” she said. “We are taking action to expand patrols for sharks and protect beachgoers from potentially dangerous situations. I encourage all New Yorkers to listen to local authorities and take precautions to help ensure safe and responsible beach trips this summer.”