Boy, 7, Loses Part of His Leg and Suffers 'Long and Deep Wounds' in Shark Attack By Staff Author

A 7-year-old boy lost part of his leg in a shark attack while swimming with several other children.

The incident occurred at Taiohae Bay in Nuku Hiva, an island in French Polynesia, on Friday, July 25, according to the Agence France-Presse (APF), per Macau Business and 24 News.

The young boy was playing in the water with about 10 other children when he was bitten on his right forearm and left hand, as well as one of his calves, which was torn off, The Sun reported.

The child was rushed to a local hospital and then airlifted to the larger French Polynesia Hospital Center (CHPF), located about 930 miles from Nuku Hiva.

PEOPLE reached out to the French Polynesia Hospital Center (CHPF) for comment on Sunday, July 27, but did not receive an immediate response.

A firefighter who assisted on the scene told the AFP that he had never seen anything like the attack.

“I’m 35 years old, and this is the first time I’ve seen this. These were long and deep wounds,” he said, per Macau Business and 24 News.

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer​​, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

“It’s probably related to the fish carcasses that fishermen throw in this area,” the firefighter continued, adding, “There are many sharks, such as blacktips, hammerheads, and lemon sharks.”

Related Stories

Woman, 59, Suffers ‘Excruciating’ Leg Injury in Shark Attack Near Popular Beach: Reports

Surfer’s Leg Washes Ashore After Shark Attack as Bystander Uses Dog Leash as Tourniquet

French Polynesia is home to over 30 shark species, according to Forbes. A recent study that surveyed over 60 years of shark bites in the region found that many attacks were triggered by human behaviors, like spearfishing and harpooning, and were often a defensive response, the outlet said.

Taiohae Bay is a popular spot for local fishermen, as well as cruise ships and sailboats, according to a Nuku Hiva tourism site. The surrounding area is known for its many waterfalls, scenic hikes and rich cultural heritage.