California Woman Injured in Shark Attack at Makena Landing

Makena Landing, file photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

A 51-year-old woman from California was attacked by a shark about 20 yards off-shore of Makena Landing on Saturday, October 27, 2012, officials said.

The woman was transported to the Maui Memorial Medical Center in stable condition after suffering puncture wounds to her right inner thigh, and lascerations to the front and back of her right hand, said Maui Fire Services Chief Lee Mainaga.

According to Mainaga, the woman’s hand injuries were sustained when she tried to push the shark away.

Maui Fire Department Crews from Ladder 14 responded to the incident at 3:56 p.m.

According to authorities, the woman was making her way into the water with her husband when the incident occurred. 

County officials estimated the shark to be between 10 to 12 feet long, and an unknown species.

Authorities say Ocean Safety crews closed the beaches located one mile to the North and South of the attack from Maluaka Beach to Changs Beach.

This is the latest shark attack incident reported in Maui waters in recent weeks. 

On Thursday, October 18, 2012, Stand-up Paddler, Dave Peterson of Maui was about 300 yards off shore of a popular Central Maui surf break known as the “Bone-yard”, when a 6-9 foot shark bit his paddle-board while he was still on it.

Then, on Monday, Oct. 22, a portion of Kanaha Beach in Central Maui was closed after witnesses reported seeing a shark attack a sea turtle.

None of the incidents were fatal.