July 4th Shark Attacks and Car Crash in Texas and New York
On July 4th, 2024, a single shark attacked multiple beachgoers on South Padre Island, Texas. Four people encountered the shark, with two suffering bite injuries. The victims were transported to Valley Regional Medical Center in Brownsville for treatment; one was flown out for advanced care. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department officials believe the same shark, approximately 6 feet long, was involved in all encounters. A helicopter was deployed to relocate the shark to deeper waters. The last reported shark attack in the area was five years ago.
In a separate incident in New York City, a suspected drunk driver crashed into Corlears Hook Park, resulting in three deaths and multiple injuries. The crash occurred around 9 PM when a Ford F-150 pickup truck barreled through a stop sign and onto the sidewalk before crashing into the park, where families were celebrating Independence Day. Among the deceased were at least two children. The driver was taken into custody, and an ongoing investigation aims to confirm whether alcohol was a factor.
These events marked a tragic Independence Day for communities in Texas and New York.