Shark attack in U.S. Virgin Islands kills snorkeler

An American woman died after a reported shark bite while snorkeling at Dorsch Beach in St. Croix on Jan. 8; authorities say the investigation is ongoing.

An American vacationer died after a reported shark bite while snorkeling at Dorsch Beach in St. Croix on Jan. 8. The Virgin Islands Police Department said marine units and emergency personnel responded after multiple calls about a person bitten by a shark. The victim was identified by next of kin as 56-year-old Arlene Lillis of Minnesota. Officials have said the investigation is ongoing and have not confirmed the species involved. Known details: - The incident was reported at about 4:28 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 8, at Dorsch Beach in St. Croix, according to the Virgin Islands Police Department. - The victim was identified as 56-year-old Arlene Lillis of Minnesota; she was taken to a local hospital and was later pronounced dead, officials reported. - Responding units included marine units and Fire and Emergency Medical Services; bystanders assisted at the scene, as noted in local accounts. - Authorities have said the shark species has not been identified and that the investigation remains open. Summary: Local officials reported the fatal incident and have opened an active investigation. According to local accounts and official statements, this is a rare fatal shark incident in the territory; local reports indicate it is the fourth fatal shark attack recorded in the U.S. Virgin Islands since 1948. Undetermined at this time.