Surfer, 61, seriously injured in shark attack at Waiehu Beach Park on Maui

WAIEHU (HawaiiNewsNow) – A 61-year-old surfer was seriously injured Friday morning in a shark attack in the waters near Waiehu Beach Park, Maui police said.

Loved ones have identified him as “Kenji” and are raising money to help with his recovery.

The incident occurred shortly after 7 a.m. at a surf spot known as “Sandpiles.” The surfer’s friends said he was a regular there.

Sources say he was sitting on his board when the shark swam up and bit him on the leg.

Witnesses who heard the victim screaming said other surfers helped him swim back to shore.

“I heard this scream and I looked and all of a sudden I saw him splashing and I don’t know what was happening,” said witness David Basques.

“He swam back maybe more than halfway, and then I saw someone jump in the water and they took him in.”

MPD said officers applied a tourniquet to the surfer’s leg before medics and firefighters arrived. Emergency services confirmed that the victim’s leg was completely severed just below the knee.

“I would like to commend the patient for his strength and means of reaching the shore. This is extraordinary. Regardless of whether the Good Samaritans offered assistance, I would like to commend them as well,” said Maui Deputy Fire Chief Jeff Giesea.

“Maui Police Department for their quick action in placing two combat tourniquets on the patient’s leg. This action often means the difference between life and death, and of course, our staff and the professional care of American Medical Response.”

The victim remains hospitalized at Maui Memorial Medical Center.

According to his GoFundMe page, Kenji said in the intensive care unit right after surgery, “I still love the ocean!”

Authorities have closed the beach park and lifeguards are patrolling the waters.

Beachgoers are asked not to enter the water from Paukukalo to Waihee until further notice.