A Well-Known Surfer Was Attacked and Killed by an Unknown Species of Shark

Santa Cruz County Coroner identified the victim of the shark attack as Ben Kelly, a resident of Santa Cruz County. According to the report, Kelly was surfing near the Maresa State Beach on the northern end of Monterey Bay. Authorities added that the incident happened on Saturday afternoon.

It is still unknown as to what species of sharks attacked Kelly. Meanwhile, this is the first shark attack after almost a month of stay-at-home policy. The victim was pronounced dead, and relatives of Kelly were already informed about the tragic incident.

California State Parks said: "State Parks expresses its deepest sympathy to the family of the victim." Meanwhile, the Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office warned everyone to avoid area and water within 100 yards of any water activities as it poses a threat.

Days before the incident happened, Monterey Bay drone photographer Eric Mailander said that he had seen more than a dozen of white sharks swimming the s. He said that he counted 15 white sharks while he was on his boat on Saturday morning, but none of them was showing signs of aggressive predatory behavior.

Santa Cruz Surfing Community Mourns for Kelly's Tragic Death

Many of Kelly's friends paid tribute to him through Instagram posts. One wrote: "A true legend and sweetest man I knew. He showed love to everyone and was loved by many. Was honored to know him for the little I did."

Another person wrote that he was very sad after hearing that Kelly was attacked by sharks. Meanwhile, one woman who lives near the state beach where the incident happened said that shark activity was common in the area, but the fatal attack was terrifying.

The woman said: "It makes me horribly sad. I love the ocean, and I hate for people to be scared of it."

Moreover, 1 mile north and south where the shark attack happened was immediately closed. Posters or signs about the shark attack were posted on access points and beach entrances. The beach will be close for five days and will not be opened until Thursday.

The State Parks said: "With the exception of water sports, Manresa State Beach is fully closed from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, meaning there is no public access during this time."

As you may recall, some beaches in California were opened recently and were even extended for visitors who live 10 miles within the radius of the beaches.

However, there were new restrictions that visitors must strictly follow that includes not to assemble, not to crouch, not to stay in one place, and more. The beaches will be closed from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. to discourage those who are coming miles away to visit the beaches.

Moreover, outside those hours, residents living in the area ca jog on the seashore or have their daily exercise.