Kite Surfer Dies After Shark Attack in S. Fla.
STUART, Fla. --
A kite surfer died Wednesday night after a shark attack off Stuart Beach.
The Martin County Sheriff's Office identified the victim as Stephen Howard Schafer, 38, of Stuart, Fla.
A lifeguard noticed Schafer, who appeared to be in distress, at about 4:15 p.m. Officials said he was in an unguarded area south of Stuart Beach.
The lifeguard went into the rough water and paddled to the victim on a rescue board. Officials said sharks were still circling the surfer as the lifeguard put him on the board and paddled back to shore.
CPR was administered immediately and rescue crews took the victim to Martin Memorial Hospital North in critical condition.
Schafer was pronounced dead at the hospital, according to the Martin County Sheriff's Office.
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