ST. CROIX, US VIRGIN ISLANDS — Arlene Lillis, a 56-year-old vacationer from Minnesota, has died after suffering a catastrophic shark bite while swimming in the Caribbean. The fatal encounter took place on Thursday afternoon near Dorsch Beach in Frederiksted.
Rescuer Describes "Ungodly Screaming"
The attack occurred around 4:30 p.m. Christopher Carroll, a nurse and former lifeguard visiting from Utah, was in his hotel room when he heard what witnesses described as "ungodly screaming" coming from the ocean. Carroll immediately sprinted to the beach and dove into the water.
He swam approximately 10 yards out to reach Lillis, who was floating in a pool of blood. Upon reaching her, Carroll realized her left arm had been severed just below the elbow.
Victim's Final Words
Despite the severity of her injuries, Lillis was conscious when Carroll reached her. He attempted to keep her calm as they made their way back to shore, assisted by another bystander, Ryan Connot. Carroll revealed that during the rescue, Lillis told him, "I’m going to die."
Connot stated that the woman managed to tell them her first name was Arlene before losing consciousness halfway back to the beach.
Search for Second Victim
Lillis was transported to a local hospital but did not survive the massive blood loss. Following the attack, authorities conducted a search of the area due to initial reports of a potential second victim, but no other individuals were found.
Authorities also conducted a search for a potential second victim initially reported by bystanders, but no other victims were found. U.S. Virgin Islands Governor Albert Bryan issued a statement offering condolences to the family and thanking the bystanders who attempted to save her life.
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