During a Caribbean vacation, eight-year-old Finley Downer suffered a shocking attack by three nurse sharks while swimming near Compass Cay in the Bahamas.
The trouble began when tourists tossed food into the water, attracting the sharks. Finley, unaware of the risk, entered the water and was viciously bitten, losing large portions of flesh from his legs.
Michael Downer described the scene as terrifying and recalled Finley’s plea to his father during the attack. A nurse on site provided urgent care, helping to control the bleeding until Finley was airlifted by private plane for life-saving surgery.
The family, from Northamptonshire, England, hopes Finley’s experience raises awareness about shark safety.
Michael said they trusted the tour was safe and does not blame the operators but acknowledges unexpected dangers can arise.
Finley is thankful to be alive and intends to avoid shark-infested waters in the future.
