Caleb Swanepoel (19), from Prins Albert, suffered complete amputation of his right leg above the knee and lacerations to his left leg from the shark bite, and was on a bodyboard when the attack happened, said the NSRI.
“It has been confirmed that Swanepoel was on a bodyboard and not on a surfboard,” said Craig Lambinon from the NSRI, this afternoon.
“Two of Swanepoel’s brothers that were in the water with him at the time, and fellow boarders and surfers, rescued him from the surf. A shark emergency kit was immediately provided by the Buffel's Bay caravan park."
Lambinon commended the help of the local doctor who was on hand, as well as the support given by Swanepoel’s family, friends, fellow bodyboarders, surfers and bystanders, who all played a part in helping Swanepoel prior to the arrival of the NSRI and emergency services.
"This all greatly contributed to saving his life," said Lambinon.
Hospital staff are continuing to treat Swanepoel, who remains in a stable condition, in George.
"NSRI and the emergency services convey their ongoing support and encouragement to Swanepoel and his family," said Lambinon.
- Update: Buffel's Bay shark attack
- Beaches closed after shark attacks
- Shark attack in Buffel's Bay
- Shark attack in Plett
'We bring you the latest Garden Route news'