A Minnesota woman has died after she was bitten by a shark at Dorsch Beach on St Croix on January 8.

The US Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) identified the victim as 56-year-old Arlene Lillis of Minnesota.

The incident occurred at approximately 4:28 pm.

When Fire and Emergency Medical Services arrived at the scene, they found bystanders assisting Lillis, who had lost an arm during the attack. 

She was transported to the Juan F Luis Hospital, where she died while receiving treatment.

There were initial reports of a second shark attack victim. However, St Croix Rescue conducted a search of the surrounding beach area and was unable to confirm that anyone else was injured.

US Virgin Islands Governor Albert Bryan Jr and Lieutenant Governor Tregenza A Roach expressed condolences to the victim’s family and others affected by the incident.

“Our hearts are with the family and loved ones of the victim, and with everyone who witnessed this tragedy,” Governor Bryan said. “We have been briefed on the information known at this time, and we are grateful to the bystanders who acted immediately to render aid and to the first responders who worked urgently and bravely in an effort to save her life.”

Roach also expressed sympathy and thanked those who responded.

“On behalf of the people of the Virgin Islands, I extend our deepest condolences to the victim’s family and all who are grieving this loss,” Roach said. 

“In moments like this, we are reminded how quickly life can change. We thank the individuals on the scene who stepped forward to help, and we commend our first responders for their swift action and professionalism under extremely difficult circumstances.”

Government House said the governor and lieutenant governor were briefed on the incident and are coordinating closely with multiple agencies, including the Virgin Islands Police Department, St Croix Rescue, the Department of Planning and Natural Resources Division of Fish and Wildlife, and the US Coast Guard.