While the exact identity of the species was undetermined, officials said it could have been a tiger shark because of the size and aggressive behavior. The beach closure will remain in effect for the remainder of the day, and ocean safety crews are expected to reassess the area at sunrise on Friday.

Maui stand-up paddle-boarder Dave Peterson said he feels lucky to be alive after a close encounter with an 8 to 9-foot shark at a surf break known as "Boneyard" near Kanaha in Central Maui this morning.