Shark Attacks Surfer In The Bay Area And 3 Rescued After Boat Capsizes Nearby

SONOMA COUNTY, CA — A Bay Area surfer was bitten by a shark Friday, according to Sonoma County authorities.

The incident occurred on Friday while the person was surfing at North Salmon Creek, according to a statement from the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office. Authorities said the surfer was bitten on the hand while in the water.

The surfer made it to shore, where they declined medical assistance at the scene. Authorities said the person went to the hospital for treatment.

Shortly after that incident, Sonoma County authorities received a separate call from Marin County Fire about a capsized boat in Tomales Bay.

When authorities arrived, three passengers were in the water, clinging to the overturned boat. Because the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office Marine Unit was already deployed due to the shark bite incident, they responded quickly and rescued all three individuals, authorities said.

One of the passengers was taken to a local hospital by the Sonoma County Fire District. The other passengers were not harmed.

A Beach Hazard Statement was in effect at the time of the rescue, and crews encountered 8- to 12-foot waves during the rescue, authorities said.