Erica Fox, 55, from Pebble Beach, has been confirmed dead after going missing amid a suspected shark attack in Monterey Bay on December 21.
Two witnesses reported seeing a shark and what appeared to be an attack on a swimmer. All other participants reached the shore safely.
Recovery Efforts
Sgt. Ryan Farotte of the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the location.
Recovery crews used a hoist system atop nearby bluffs to safely bring the body from the beach below, with support from Cal Fire and local agencies.
Eyewitness Account
One witness reported seeing a shark breach the water with what appeared to be a body in its jaws.
Shark Attacks in California
Shark attacks remain rare in California. Most attacks, over 200, involve white sharks that thrive in cold water.
Triathlete and Community Member
Fox was an experienced athlete who had completed two half-Ironmans and numerous triathlons. For two decades, she participated in the annual Escape From Alcatraz triathlon.
“Swimming was her forte. She just loved that,” he said.
