911 call reveals frantic moments after 8-year-old boy bitten by shark off Key Largo
An 8-year-old boy from Pinecrest is recovering after being bitten by a shark while snorkeling with his father and sister off Key Largo on Labor Day, according to the Monroe County Sheriff's Office and a family spokesperson.
The boy, identified as Richard Burrows, was attacked shortly before 3:30 p.m. Monday near the Garden Cove Marina.
CBS News Miami has learned that the child's father, David Burrows, made the 911 call after the incident.
911 call captures frantic rescue efforts
According to the Burrows family, "a black tip shark rushed the trio and bit Richard on his right knee."
A nearby boater heard the distress call over the radio and helped the family get to shore while someone called 911.
"We're offshore, a shark bite," the man said.
"A shark bite, are you guys able to bring the patient back in?" the 911 operator asked.
"Yeah, we're on the boat. Keep his leg up," the man said to someone on the boat.
"Is he awake and breathing?" the operator asked.
"Yes, he's breathing and awake. Hold his leg up like this, yes," the man replied.
"Is there a tourniquet on his leg?" asked the operator.
"A tourniquet is on his leg, yes," the man said.
Once back on shore, Richard was airlifted to Jackson Memorial Hospital's Ryder Trauma Center in Miami, where doctors were able to save his leg.
Fire captain commends bystanders for quick action
Key Largo Fire Department Captain Chris Jones told CBS News Miami, "The major concern for us off the bat was how to get this person in to the dock and thankfully there was a dive boat that happened to be out in the same area and was able to see the family in distress out there and was able to get to them."
He also praised those who applied first aid.
"It is very important to use tourniquets to contain that bleeding immediately because with blood loss and tissue damage you could be possibly losing limbs," Jones said.
Family says boy is in good spirits
The Burrows family released a statement saying the injury was significant but controlled thanks to the quick actions of those nearby.
"Richard is recovering well from his surgery and is gaining strength by the day. He is in good spirits. Our hope is that he will be back enjoying his passion for the ocean and marine life with his older sister in no time," the family said.
It is not known how long Richard will remain hospitalized.