South Padre Island, Texas – Multiple people suffered injuries in a shark attack on the Fourth of July, according to authorities. The South Padre Island Police Department and the U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area confirmed that four individuals were injured during the incident with the ocean predator on South Padre Island’s southern coast.

The attacks occurred around 11 a.m. local time along Beach Access 14, near Wanna Wanna Beach Bar and Grill. First responders from the South Padre Island police and fire department provided on-site treatment before one male victim was transported to a nearby hospital. The severity of his injuries was described as “severe” by authorities.

Game Warden Capt. Chris Dowdy reported that the attacks took place within a two-hour timeframe along the beach. Witnesses and social media images led officials to believe that a single 6-foot shark was responsible for the incidents.

Video footage shared on social media depicted a badly injured individual being brought ashore after the attack. Blood visible in the water caused distress among beachgoers, prompting some to collect a belt for use as a tourniquet. Law enforcement is now patrolling the shore for any sign of sharks.

Authorities have not provided updates on the conditions of the victims involved in the three other incidents. The ongoing presence of sharks near the beach raises concerns for public safety in the area.