DNER rangers patrol Vacía Talega beach in Loíza after possible shark sighting

After photos of a shark-like silhouette in the water were circulated, DNER Ranger Corps personnel were activated at Vacía Talega beach in Loíza, where they assessed the coastline, interviewed beachgoers and offered safety guidance. (Facebook via Puertoricogram)

By THE STAR STAFF

The Natural and Environmental Resources (DNER) Secretary Waldemar Quiles Pérez said Thursday that he activated Ranger Corps personnel at Vacía Talega beach in Loíza after photos of a shark-like silhouette in the water were circulated.

“This morning we received a series of photographs that are circulating on social networks showing what appears to be a silhouette that could represent a shark in the area of the Vacía Talega beach,” the official said in a written statement.

Quiles noted that the beach is one of the most visited in the northeast region and has a high presence of bathers during the summer months.

Members of the Ranger Corps arrived in the area at 10 a.m. to assess the coast and interview beachgoers, the DNER chief said.

“It was determined that, at this time, there is no fish similar to the one seen in the photographs, neither on the shore of Vacía Talega beach, or the surrounding coast,” Quiles added.

During the intervention, the rangers guided bathers on the importance of moving away and avoiding interaction if they observe such fish.

A group of three rangers assigned to the Piñones Maritime Unit were to continue monitoring the area on Thursday.