Shark killed in truck accident

A shark being transported from Florida to an aquarium in New York died after sustaining injuries when the truck carrying the fish experienced a blowout, authorities say. Three other sharks that were also in the semi-trailer truck at the time of the incident were unharmed and safely transferred to SeaWorld Orlando. A spokesperson with the Florida Highway Patrol said the incident happened at around 2:24pm on Wednesday near Edgewater.



Early reports from authorities indicated that there was a total of five sandbar sharks inside the truck. FHP later corrected that number, from five to four. Troopers said the truck was travelling northbound when it experienced a right, front tyre tread separation and then travelled into the median. The driver attempted to maintain control of the truck, but as the vehicle went off the road, it became too bumpy and resulted in fatal injuries to one of the sharks after it was thrown out of its tank.

No other vehicles were involved, and the driver and two passengers were not harmed. The three sharks that survived the crash appear to be okay. "They're in good condition. The rest are well and appear to be in good health," said Jim Kinsler, Assistant Curator of Fishes at SeaWorld Orlando. "We'll care for them until future plans are made to take them on the rest of their journey." Crews cut down trees surrounding the truck so that it could be towed from the scene.


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The team from SeaWorld Orlando carried each shark from the truck to a special vehicle brought over from Orlando. "Sharks require good water conditions and appropriate space and care during the transport. With our expertise and equipment and knowledge, that's what will make a successful transport," Kinsler added. The trailer is owned by Dynasty Marine Transportation, Inc. out of Marathon, Florida and was transporting the sharks to the New York Aquarium on Coney Island. A spokesperson with SeaWorld Orlando said it is not yet known how long the sharks will be staying at their facility.