A routine dawn session turned into a violent collision when a shark hurled a 26-year-old surfer from his board off California’s Mendocino coast.
At a Glance
- A shark attack shattered Tommy Civik’s board and left him with three puncture wounds on Jan. 13
- The incident happened roughly 150 feet from the shoreline north of the Gualala River
- The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is testing the damaged gear to confirm the species
- Why it matters: The strike is the region’s first confirmed shark-surfer encounter of 2026, reviving safety concerns along a popular big-wave stretch
Tommy Civik had been in the Pacific for under 10 minutes when the animal rammed him on Tuesday, Jan. 13, around 8:45 a.m., according to South Coast Fire Chief Jason Warner.
Attack Details
Witnesses told responding crews that the shark launched Civik skyward before severing the back half of his board. A friend who saw the moment estimated the fish at several feet in length, though visibility was limited by swirling surf.
Civik recounted the impact to SFGATE: “It was like being hit by a car. All of a sudden, I was shot out of the water.” The force left three distinct teeth marks on his upper left thigh, shredding his wet suit and causing puncture wounds that required stitches.
Despite the trauma, Civik managed to paddle the remaining distance to shore. Emergency responders met him north of the Gualala River and transported him to a nearby hospital where doctors closed the lacerations.
Equipment Under Review
State wildlife officials have collected:
- The torn wet suit
- The snapped board
- Bloodied wound dressings
Laboratory analysis will attempt to extract DNA and confirm the shark species involved. The results could help biologists track local predator movements and decide whether to post additional advisories along the Mendocino coastline.
Local Response
South Coast Fire Protection District crews canvassed the beach for further evidence while lifeguards up and down Highway 1 increased patrols. No additional sightings have been reported, and beaches remain open.
News Of Losangeles reached out to both the fire district and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for updated comment; neither had released new information by publication time.
Key Takeaways
- The attack happened quickly and close to shore, underscoring how rapidly conditions can change
- Civik’s ability to reach safety prevented more serious injury
- State testing may clarify whether a white shark was responsible
- Surfers are urged to stay in groups, avoid murky water, and heed posted warnings
