Shark attacks rose in 2025, and the only U.S. death was in California - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Meg Tanaka

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Shark attacks in 2025 returned to near-average levels after declining in 2024, with 65 unprovoked incidents globally. While this number slightly below the 10-year average of 72, it marked a rise from 2024 and included nine fatalities worldwide, up from six over the past decade. The United States experienced the highest number of attacks, accounting for 38% of global cases, though this was a decline from previous years when it had exceeded half of all reported bites. Florida led U.S. states with 11 incidents, while California stood out as the only state with a fatal attack, occurring off Monterey Bay. California’s sole U.S. fatality in 2025 highlights its unique pattern of shark attacks compared to other regions. A 55-year-old triathlete was attacked by a white shark while swimming with a group near Monterey Bay, underscoring the higher proportion of serious incidents in colder, deeper waters. Experts explain that while coastal areas like Florida often see smaller sharks in shallow waters, leading to nonfatal injuries, California’s larger species—such as great whites—inhabit its deeper, colder waters, resulting in more severe outcomes. The global stability in shark attack patterns over decades reflects a combination of factors, including shark biology, ocean conditions, and human activity. Despite annual fluctuations, the overall risk remains extremely low, with drowning posing a far greater threat than shark bites. While conservation efforts have helped some shark populations recover in regions like the U.S. and Australia, many species remain endangered due to overfishing. Understanding these patterns matters for public safety and environmental awareness. For swimmers and ocean enthusiasts, knowing where and when to enter the water can reduce risks, as sharks are less likely to attack

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/19/2026