Mexican diver killed after leg bitten off during Great White shark encounter

A 22-year-old fisherman, identified as Victor Alejandro Soto Garcia, lost his life in a tragic incident off the Mexican coast in the Pacific Ocean. Engaged in scallop diving near Playa Tojahui in the Gulf of California on December 29, Garcia fell victim to a 13-foot-long great white shark, as reported by Mexican authorities.

While engaged in free-diving, Garcia suffered a brutal attack, with the apex predator estimated to be 13 feet in length biting off his left leg. The incident occurred near the beach in the town of Huatabampo, Sonora state, as detailed by Mexico News Daily.

Scallop fisherman Victor Alejandro Soto Garcia, 22, was killed by a great white shark off the coast of Mexico. (image via Jam Press)

Following the attack, Garcia's fellow fishermen transported his body to the pier in Yavaros, as confirmed by the Sonora Civil Protection agency CEPC. Despite immediate life-saving efforts, Garcia succumbed to his injuries on the scene.

Notably, at the time of the tragic incident, Garcia was not equipped with a shark-repellent bracelet, according to statements from agency officials.

These devices release electronic signals or chemicals designed to deter sharks from approaching individuals in the water.

Last year, approximately 100 anti-shark bracelets were distributed to local fishermen in Sonora state.

Following the tragic event, the Sonora Civil Protection agency emphasized the importance for fishermen to "adopt necessary preventive measures when engaging in their activities."

El Financiero reported that five scallop fishermen lost their lives to shark attacks in both 2022 and 2023 off the coast of Sonora.

In the weeks preceding Garcia's unfortunate demise, a 76-year-old Belgian man fell victim to either a shark or a crocodile at a beach in Ixtapa, Guerrero.

If you would like to write for The Daily Jaws, please visit our ‘work with us’ page

For all the latest Jaws, shark and shark movie news, follow The Daily Jaws on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.