Family of woman whose hands were bitten off by shark reveal full details of 'nightmare' encounter

The family of a Canadian woman whose hands were bitten off in a horrifying shark attack in the Turks and Caicos have spoken out over the incident.

On 7 February, a 55-year-old woman suffered life-changing injuries after being attacked by a shark while relaxing on the idyllic Thompson’s Cove Beach in central Providenciales.

It's understood the woman lost both of her hands and was bitten in the leg during the savage attack, with footage captured in the aftermath of the incident showing tourists performing emergency first aid on the beach.

A statement from the island nation's environmental and coastal resources later confirmed that she was in a stable condition and had been transported away from the island to receive further medical care.

The attack happened while the couple were enjoying one of the island's beaches (Getty Stock Images)

The woman's family have now spoken publicly about the harrowing ordeal, confirming the 'heroic' actions of her husband who leapt to her defence and attempted wrestle the shark away.

"While on what was supposed to be a relaxing vacation, my sister-in-law and her husband, my brother, lived what can only be described as a nightmare," read a statement from the woman's brother-in-law.

The account went on to explain how had been attacked by a bull shark in 'hip deep clear water', with the predator first attacking her legs.

"Not satisfied, the shark came back again and when she put both hands in front of her to protect herself, the shark cut off both of her hands, one at mid forearm and the other at the wrist," the account continued.

"Her husband, having rushed back to help, then managed to wrestle away the shark and stayed between her and the shark until she walked out of the water and collapsed on the beach."

She will now undergo further surgery in Canada.

The family claim the 55-year-old was bitten by a bull shark (Getty Stock Images)

Confirming that a GoFundMe has been set up to support the woman and her husband in the aftermath of the attack, he continued: "This is something that has completely altered their life in the blink of an eye. I ask, if you can, to please help them; they will need a lot of support to get through this.

"Any and all contributions will be greatly appreciated."

At the time of writing the fundraiser has received CA $22,500 (£12,500) of its $26k goal, a link to the page can be found here.

The woman is the third tourist to be attacked by a shark in three years on the islands, with Visit Turks and Caicos noting that two snorkelers were attacked in 2023 and 2024 respectively.

However attacks are still considered to be rare, with authorities urging tourists to 'always be aware of your surroundings, follow local advisories, and respect marine life'.

"Swim in designated areas, avoid murky waters, never swim alone, and do not attempt to feed marine wildlife under any circumstances," the statement added.