A 56-year-old woman from Minnesota has died following a horrific shark attack while she was in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The incident occurred on Thursday, January 9, 2026, at Dorcsh Beach on the island of St. Croix.
A Fatal Encounter at Dorcsh Beach
According to the Virgin Islands Police Department, emergency services received multiple 911 calls shortly after 4:28 p.m. local time reporting a possible shark bite victim. Marine units, fire crews, and emergency medical personnel rushed to the scene. First responders confirmed the woman, later identified as Arlene Lillis of Minnesota, had lost an arm during the attack. Despite efforts to save her, she later succumbed to her severe injuries.
Police conducted a search of the beach perimeter after initial reports suggested a potential second victim. However, the search concluded with no other individuals located.
Eyewitness Account of the Tragedy
Christopher Carroll, a nurse and former lifeguard who was staying at a hotel on the beach, provided a harrowing account to local media. He described hearing screams from the shoreline and immediately rushing to help.
"When I swam out to reach her, I only realized it was a shark attack when I saw a large amount of blood in the water," Carroll told The Virgin Island Consortium. He detailed the extent of her injuries, noting her left arm was missing from the elbow down, with significant tissue damage to the remaining part of her arm and shoulder. Carroll reassured the victim as he towed her back to the beach.
Official Response and Ongoing Investigation
U.S. Virgin Islands Governor Albert Bryan Jr. and Lieutenant Governor Tregenza A. Roach issued a joint statement expressing their condolences. "Our hearts are with the family and loved ones of the victim, and with everyone who witnessed this tragedy," said Governor Bryan. He praised the bystanders who rendered immediate aid and the first responders for their brave efforts.
Lt. Gov. Roach added, "In moments like this, we are reminded how quickly life can change. We thank the individuals on the scene who stepped forward to help, and we commend our first responders for their swift action and professionalism under extremely difficult circumstances."
The Virgin Islands Police Department has stated that the investigation into the fatal shark attack remains ongoing.
