‘Senior’ Surfer Rescued by Fellow Surfers After Terrifying Shark Attack

A tranquil morning off Maui’s Waiehu Beach Park turned into a scene of chaos and heroism when a 61-year-old surfer was critically injured in a sudden shark attack.

The surfer, a regular at the popular break known as “Sandpiles,” was attacked shortly after 7 a.m. as he sat on his board waiting for a wave. Witnesses say the shark swam up, striking his leg in a violent assault.

The chilling cries for help echoed across the beach. “I heard this yell, and I looked… all of a sudden I just saw him splash. I didn’t know what was happening,” said David Basques, who witnessed the horrific moment. “He swam himself back maybe more than halfway, then I saw somebody jump in to help him inside.”

The surfer’s courage was evident even in those desperate seconds, and Basques watched as he fought to keep himself afloat.

Responding to the cries, fellow surfers leaped into action, guiding the victim toward the shore where Maui Police Department (MPD) officers were ready with lifesaving measures. In a swift response, officers applied a tourniquet to his leg before medics arrived.

Maui Fire Department Assistant Chief Jeff Giesea praised the efforts, stating, “I would like to commend the patient for his strength and wherewithal, getting himself to shore. That’s extraordinary. Whatever Good Samaritans offered assistance, I’d like to commend them as well.”

The attack, which left the surfer’s leg severed just below the knee, could have easily turned fatal if not for the immediate actions of MPD and other responders on the scene. Giesea highlighted the significance of their quick response, saying, “Maui Police Department, with their fast action, applied two combat application tourniquets. That action is often the difference between life and death.”

The injured surfer, whose GoFundMe page identifies him as Kenji, remains hospitalized at Maui Memorial Medical Center. But in an astonishing display of resilience, he managed a statement from the ICU just hours after surgery.

“I still love the ocean!” Kenji reportedly declared, exemplifying his unwavering spirit despite the ordeal.

Officials have since closed Waiehu Beach Park, with lifeguards patrolling the area and advising all beachgoers to stay out of the water from Paukukalo to Waihee.