Surfer Injured After Shark Breaks Board Off Northern California Coast

A Northern California surfer is recovering after a shark encounter off the coast of Gualala this week, marking the state’s first confirmed shark incident of the year.

The incident happened Tuesday morning when Tommy Civik was surfing in Mendocino County waters. According to local officials, a large shark struck Civik and his surfboard, snapping the board in half and briefly launching him out of the water. Witnesses initially thought the shark was attacking a seal before realizing a surfer had been hit.

Emergency crews from the South Coast Fire Protection District responded to the beach shortly before 9 a.m. Civik was able to make it back to shore on his own and later drove himself to the hospital. He required stitches but avoided more serious injuries, crediting his board for absorbing most of the impact.

Civik told reporters he never actually saw the shark during the encounter and focused solely on swimming away as quickly as possible. Officials with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife said DNA collected from the wound will help determine what species was involved.

The bite comes during a period of heightened attention on shark activity along the California coast. While 2025 saw a high number of reported shark encounters statewide, officials note that only a small number resulted in injuries—far fewer than historic peaks.

Authorities continue to remind surfers and swimmers to stay aware of ocean conditions, especially in areas known for marine wildlife activity.