Teen Dies in Rare Shark Attack While Spearfishing Off Jamaica’s Coast

A 16-year-old boy was killed in a rare shark attack while spearfishing off the coast of Jamaica, marking an unusual and tragic event for the Caribbean island.

The incident occurred near the tourist hub of Montego Bay, where the teen, identified as Jahmari Reid, had gone spearfishing alone on Monday, August 26.

Jahmari, a student at William Knibb Memorial High School in Falmouth, Trelawny, was known for his love of spearfishing despite his father’s concerns about the dangers of the sport. His father, Michael Reid, had repeatedly urged him to stop, fearing the risks involved.

The following morning, divers discovered Jahmari’s decapitated body, which was also missing his left arm. Witnesses reported seeing a tiger shark near where Jahmari’s severed arm was discovered, leading authorities to believe the shark was responsible for the attack. Rescue teams attempted to catch the shark in hopes of recovering Jahmari’s missing head, but were unsuccessful.

Shark attacks in Jamaica are extremely rare, with only three unprovoked attacks recorded since 1749, according to the Florida-based International Shark Attack File. Experts believe the shark that attacked Jahmari may have followed a cruise ship into the area.

Jahmari’s death has left his family and the local community in shock.

“I can’t believe that he went to sea by himself yesterday and that was the outcome. Sad to know. I feel so bad,” Michael Reid told local media.

The incident has prompted calls for increased caution among spearfishers and divers in the region, particularly when large vessels are nearby.

With input from Sky News, New York Post, People and USA Today.