Florida Surfer’s Near-Death Experience: “It Felt Like a Lightning Strike” — Shark Attack in Shallow Waters Shocks New Smyrna Beach
A chilling shark attack at New Smyrna Beach, Florida, has once again drawn global attention to one of the world’s most infamous surf spots. A 40-year-old surfer, identified as Matt Bender, narrowly escaped death earlier this week after being bitten by a shark in waist-deep water — an incident that has both terrified and fascinated beachgoers.
The attack occurred on a bright Wednesday morning as Bender, an experienced local surfer, paddled out for what he thought would be a routine session. Conditions were calm, the waves were gentle, and the ocean appeared inviting. But within moments, the peaceful atmosphere shattered.
Witnesses described hearing a sharp cry followed by chaos in the water. “He suddenly yelled out — it was unlike anything I’ve ever heard,” said one onlooker. “Then we saw the water around him turn red. Everyone started running and shouting for help.”
Emergency responders were called immediately, and lifeguards rushed into the surf to assist. They found Bender clutching his left arm, bleeding heavily but still conscious. He was swiftly brought to shore and treated by paramedics before being transported to Halifax Health Medical Center in Daytona Beach.
Doctors confirmed that Bender had sustained deep lacerations and muscle damage to his forearm, likely from a juvenile bull shark or blacktip shark — both species common in the area’s shallow waters. After hours of emergency surgery, doctors managed to save his arm, and he is now recovering in stable condition.
Speaking from his hospital bed, Bender recounted the terrifying moment that changed his life. “It felt like a bolt of lightning hit me,” he said. “One second, I was paddling, and the next, this force just slammed into my arm. I didn’t even see it coming. It hit, bit, and vanished — like a flash.”
Marine experts say the attack fits a familiar pattern for New Smyrna Beach, a location often referred to as the “shark bite capital of the world.” The region has recorded more shark bites than anywhere else on the planet, mainly due to its warm, murky waters and abundance of baitfish. These conditions attract sharks close to shore, especially during feeding hours in the early morning and late afternoon.
Marine biologist Dr. Emily Carter explained that such attacks are rarely intentional. “Sharks don’t target humans for food,” she said. “Most of the time, they mistake surfers or swimmers for prey — like fish or seals. Once they realize it’s not what they’re looking for, they usually let go. Unfortunately, that quick mistake can still cause serious injuries.”
The terrifying nature of this attack — happening in waist-deep water, so close to shore — has shocked even veteran locals. Many frequent surfers at New Smyrna are used to minor encounters with sharks, but such severe bites are relatively rare.
Local authorities have increased patrols and posted warnings advising visitors to stay cautious, especially when the water is cloudy or schools of fish are present. Beach safety officials also remind swimmers to avoid wearing shiny jewelry, as the reflection can mimic fish scales and attract sharks.
Despite the trauma, Bender has maintained a calm and determined outlook. “I’ve been surfing these waters for years, and I know the risks,” he said. “You can’t let fear take over. I’ll heal, and I’ll be back out there soon. The ocean is still home — this just reminded me how powerful it really is.”
Fellow surfers have rallied around him, organizing community safety talks and donating to a local shark-awareness fund in his name. The story has reignited conversations across Florida about improving education around shark behavior, rather than promoting fear.
Dr. Carter emphasized the importance of perspective. “Every time there’s a shark bite, people panic,” she said. “But the truth is, humans pose far more danger to sharks than they do to us. For every attack, thousands of sharks are killed through fishing, pollution, and habitat loss. The ocean is their home — we’re just visitors.”
Still, the shock of Bender’s encounter lingers. The idea that a man could be attacked in such shallow, seemingly safe water has left beachgoers uneasy. Some locals are avoiding the surf altogether, while others say it’s simply part of life in coastal Florida.
As for Bender, he remains undeterred. “It was a scary moment, sure,” he admitted. “But that’s nature. You respect it, you learn from it, and you keep living.”
His story — a blend of fear, survival, and resilience — serves as a powerful reminder of the unpredictable beauty and danger of the sea. In a place known for both its world-class waves and its lurking predators, one man’s near-fatal encounter has reignited awe and respect for the waters that Floridians call their own.
