Surfer survives shark attack near Santa Rosa Island

VENTURA COUNTY, Calif. - A Coast Guard helicopter airlifted a surfer bitten by a shark Saturday afternoon.

It happened near Santa Rosa Islands around 4 p.m.

Ventura County Fire Department sent paramedics by Coast Guard boat to the Island as well.

The shark bit a 37-year-old male surfer on the right thigh while he surfed a popular spot on the Northwest side of the island.

As of 5:12 p.m., Ventura County Fire said a tourniquet was placed on the man's leg. That person is currently in stable condition.

The surfer was transported to the Santa Barbara Airport and then transported to Cottage Hospital by a waiting ambulance.

The boat he apparently went to the island on returned to the Santa Barbara Harbor on Saturday evening.

The type of shark is still unclear.

"This was the best possible outcome to a truly terrifying situation,” said Lt. Benjamin McIntyre-Coble, the Coast Guard Sector-Los Angeles Long Beach command duty officer. “This individual was fortunate to be with a buddy who was able to communicate their position to the Coast Guard. We are all happy that he will be able to be with his family in time for the holidays.”

The patient was reported to be in stable condition.