Encinitas Shark Attack Prompts Fundraiser For Victim

ENCINITAS, CA -- The community began fundraising this weekend for a 13-year-old boy who was attacked by a shark in Encinitas. The attack happened early Saturday morning while the boy was diving for lobster, Encinitas officials said.

Officials declined to identify the boy, but loved ones wrote on GoFundMe that the victim's name is Keane Hayes, who was recovering at Rady Children's Hospital. The fundraiser, which has a goal of $20,000, raised more than $7,000 as of Sunday.

More than 140 people donated to the campaign, including friends and strangers.

"Justin and my son grew up together and did a lot of surfing," wrote Doreen McLeod.

"Wishing Keene a speedy recovery. From your VT friends who share your So CA love. Hugs!" wrote Christina Frost.

ALSO SEE: Boy, 13, Attacked By Shark At Encinitas Beach

Ryan Ferguson wrote, "Keane, I was out diving at Beacons that morning with you. You’re a super brave guy. I hope you’re back to health soon, before you know it, back at school impressing friends with your cool scars."

Witness Chad Hammel told Fox 5 he was with a group of friends diving for lobster when he heard the teen screaming.

"His whole clavicle was ripped open," Hammel told the news station. "We told him he's going to be OK, he's going to be alright -- we got help. I yelled at everyone to get out of the water."

The beach where the attack happened is set to be closed until Monday morning, according to city of Encinitas spokeswoman Lois Yum.

Signs were posted, and a lifeguard patrol boat and a San Diego County Sheriff's Department helicopter will monitor the area.

No shark activity has been witnessed since the incident, city officials said. Officials are trying to determine the type of shark that caused the injury.

--City News Service contributed to this report/GoFundMe is a Patch promotional partner

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