When Sharks Attack

Texas may be best known for its wide-open plains, but it also has a thriving beach scene. The waters of the Gulf are home to a range of shark species, which isn't usually a problem for humans. But in 2010 and 2011, six terrifying attacks leave locals fearing for their safety. A team of expert investigators takes a closer look at what could be the cause of these mysterious and harrowing attacks.

Thanks to its crystal-clear waters and powdery white sands, the Seychelles are best known as an idyllic escape for honeymooners. But in 2011 the archipelago is rocked by a terrifying series of events — two deadly shark attacks in two weeks. Desperate to bring peace back to the paradise island, the local government calls in experts to investigate what's behind these tragic events.

In the summer of 2018, just outside of New York City on the coastline of Fire Island, two children are attacked by sharks within an hour of each other. They are the first victims of a shark attack in New York state in more than 60 years. Investigators are racing to discover the cause of these terrifying attacks.

A small stretch of Florida's coastline, near New Smyrna Beach, has the unfavorable title of "the shark attack capital of the world." Since records began in the 1800s, more than 200 victims have been attacked here; in fact, humans are more likely to be bitten here than anywhere else on the planet. In order to help keep local residents safe, experts investigate potential causes.

The roughly 25-mile stretch of shore surrounding Recife, Brazil, is one of the most dangerous places for shark attacks on the planet. Since the 1990s, there have been more than 60 shark attacks — almost half of which were fatal — recorded in this area. Investigators are on the case to uncover why.

From 2014-2015, Southern California is the site of an alarming spike of twelve shark attacks. Shark experts attempt to figure-out what is behind this uptick in attacks. Their investigation will take them to the beaches and shoreline communities that dot the coast, and they will uncover the surprising reason why California faced this terrifying influx of shark attacks in 2014 and 2015.

In 2017 and 2018, tourists and locals alike are stunned by three shark attacks off the shores of Cape Cod in a span of just 13 months. Many locals are terrified to allow their children into the water and fear what might happen to their economy if tourists decide to stay away. Experts are called in to investigate before it's too late.

The tiny French island of Réunion in the Indian Ocean was once known as a tropical paradise with world-class waves and exceptional diving opportunities. But in 2011, a sudden spike in shark attacks plunges the population into panic. Twenty-three horrifying attacks, including nine fatalities, make Reunion one of the world's deadliest islands.

With some of the most remote populations in the world, Western Australia has grown to live in harmony with its wild natural environment. Everyone knows the infamous Great White shark prowls the WA coastline, but after centuries of living in harmony, 2010 something knocked the balance and the number of attacks sky-rocketed.

On the Jersey Shore, during the summer of 1916, America's fear of sharks was born. Until this point, sharks had been thought to be harmless fish in the ocean. But during twelve days of terror, the Jersey Shore is painted red with blood, as five people are attacked by sharks. Four of these victims, succumb to their injuries. But what can this historic case teach us about protecting beachgoers, today?