Bryan and Roach Issue Statement Following Fatal Shark Attack at Dorsch Beach

Governor Albert Bryan Jr. and Lieutenant Governor Tregenza Roach on Thursday issued a statement responding to the fatal shark attack at Dorsch Beach on St. Croix, expressing condolences to the victim’s family and commending the actions of bystanders and emergency responders who rushed to assist.

In remarks released Jan. 8, the territory’s top elected officials said they had been briefed on the information available as of Thursday evening and were in close coordination with agencies involved in the response following 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.”

Lieutenant Governor Roach also extended condolences and thanked those who responded at the scene.

“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.”

According to the statement, Governor Bryan and Lieutenant Governor Roach are coordinating with multiple agencies, including the V.I. Police Department, St. Croix Rescue, the Department of Planning and Natural Resources Division of Fish and Wildlife, and the U.S. Coast Guard.

Officials said the Coast Guard conducted a search of the beach area Thursday evening following the incident. The statement noted that the information reflects what was known at the time of release and that additional details will be shared as they become available.