Caught

Shark Caught and Killed in Amity

The shark that allegedly killed two people at Amity's tranquil, relaxing beaches this past week has reportedly been caught and killed by a local fisherman.  The shark was found about one mile south- southwest of Amity.

According to the town meeting that took place last night, the person who finds and kills the killer shark, will receive a $3,000 reward.  At the meeting, the police department also said that the town will be bringing in extra deputies and experts to find out more about these recent attacks.

Chief Martin Brody said that beaches will be closing temporarily, but are trying to be open again as soon as possible, just in time for the Fourth of July weekend.

Massachusetts resident and Marine Biologist Matt Hooper, of the Oceanographic Institute, inspected the shark once it was brought ashore by the unidentified fisherman who killed it.  Hooper identified the shark as a Nurse shark.  The  Police Department claims that the shark is one of the most dangerous of all sharks along the East Coast of the United States.

According to National Geographic Magazine, Nurse sharks are generally slow moving, nocturnal sharks that stay closer to the ocean floor.  These types of sharks are usually harmless to humans, making this a very rare, unusual event. 

Brody encourages all people to partake in their usual Fourth of July weekend activities in Amity, and to go out and recreate the beaches.

Those who choose to go to the beach should not be alarmed by shark spotters from the Coast Guard, Marine Patrol, State Police, FBI, and other agencies who are there to protect the beaches of Amity during the busy summer weekend.

The Amity Police Department wants any shark sightings to be reported at the toll-free shark hotline, 1-800-sharksee.