NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH, NC – A young West Virginia boy is recounting a harrowing encounter with a shark that occurred while he was swimming at North Topsail Beach in North Carolina. The 14-year-old, Blayne Brown, sustained serious injuries from a shark bite last Thursday around midday but is now on the road to recovery.

While enjoying the seaside with his family near Beach Access 4, Blayne experienced what he describes as a terrifying ordeal that resulted in deep lacerations to his leg and ankle. The attack happened without warning, leaving the teenager in a state of shock and in severe pain as he made his way back to the beach, supported by his grandmother, who was with him at the time.

Responding promptly to the emergency, local authorities reached the scene within just two minutes, thanks to their proximity due to another call. The quick action of bystanders and first responders who applied pressure to the wounds likely saved the boy’s life. Blayne was subsequently transported to the Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune Level III Trauma Center, where he underwent surgery to repair multiple tendons and close the bite wounds.

Expressing immense gratitude, Blayne thanked the medical team responsible for his care, acknowledging their efforts in ensuring he has a strong chance at a full recovery. The local community has rallied around the brave teenager, with North Topsail Beach Police Chief William Younginer commenting on the boy’s spirit and expressing a desire to see Blayne return to the beach confidently in the future.

Officials have emphasized that while shark attacks can be alarming, they are relatively rare and that beachgoers should be more vigilant about riptides and currents, which present a more common danger. Authorities pointed out that the last reported shark bite at this particular beach occurred six years ago.

Records show that globally, there were 69 unprovoked shark bites on humans and 22 provoked bites over the year, with North Carolina ranking fifth in the United States for such incidents. Nonetheless, the emphasis remains on water safety and awareness as the most important factors when enjoying the beach.