Horror at the North Topsail Beach (ZIP 28460) : 7-Year-Old Boy Severely Injured in Shark Attack – LIVE UPDATES

North Topsail Beach (ZIP 28460) – A day meant for family fun at the beach turned into a nightmare when a 7-year-old boy was attacked by a shark, resulting in the loss of part of his leg and multiple deep wounds. The attack occurred Saturday afternoon near North Topsail Beach, a popular vacation destination in Onslow County, North Carolina. Emergency responders were called to the scene immediately after witnesses reported frantic screams and blood in the water.

The child, who was playing in shallow water with his siblings, was pulled from the surf by a bystander before lifeguards rushed in. He was airlifted to New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington, where doctors performed emergency surgery to stabilize his condition. According to the family’s statement, the boy remains in critical but stable condition and is being monitored closely in pediatric intensive care.

Shark experts say this is the third attack along the Carolina coast this summer, raising serious concerns as tourism season peaks. Beachgoers are being urged to remain cautious, especially in known feeding areas during high tide or dusk hours.

Officials are investigating the exact species involved and whether more patrols or beach closures are necessary in the coming days.

Key Facts

•  BREAKING: Shark attack at North Topsail Beach injures young child

•  IMPACT: 7-year-old loses part of his leg; critical but stable condition

•  OFFICIAL SOURCE: “He suffered long and deep wounds—this was traumatic.” — Onslow EMS Chief

•  ACTION: Public advised to avoid swimming near schools of fish or murky waters

Hyperlocal Impact

1. Precise Location:
   North Topsail Beach (ZIP 28460) – near New River Inlet Road public beach access

2. Community Connection:
   “We were just a few yards away—it could’ve been my daughter.”
   – Tara Milton, beachgoer and Jacksonville resident

Exclusive Angle

• WHY THIS MATTERS NOW:
  This marks the third shark attack on the North Carolina coast in less than five weeks, alarming both tourists and local officials as the peak beach season continues. Warmer waters and baitfish activity are believed to be contributing to unusual shark proximity.

Update Log

•  6:25 PM: Doctors confirm boy will undergo second reconstructive surgery

•  3:15 PM: Beach area temporarily closed pending shark patrol sweep

•  2:20 PM: Child airlifted to Wilmington trauma center

•  1:58 PM: 911 call placed from beach reporting “shark bite, heavy bleeding”