Kayaker uninjured in Santa Cruz shark attack

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. (KTVU)-- A kayaker escaped without injury in Santa Cruz this morning, Santa Cruz Fire Department confirms. The department received a call at 11:01 a.m. about a potential shark attack near West Cliff and Pelton Avenue. 

The kayaker was described as seasoned and his kayak was attacked about a quarter mile out from Streamer Lane, according to officials. The damage to his gear was said to be extensive. 

The Santa Cruz County Shark Incident Action Plan, will post Main Beach, Cowell Beach and other beach access points within a 1- mile radius of the attack for four days.  

Beach activities will be prohibited until sunrise Saturday July 15th.  Lifeguards and marine safety staff will monitor the area in the meantime.  

“Attacks like these are extremely rare in Santa Cruz County, and we are so thankful that the kayaker was uninjured." said Santa Cruz Fire Chief Jim Frawley. "This is a reminder that swimming in the ocean does carry some risk and we encourage all swimmers, surfers, and kayakers to be mindful of their surroundings and follow directions of lifeguards and Marine Safety staff.”