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Shark attack! 1916 deaths sparked fear that endures today

MATAWAN, N.J. (AP) — A New Jersey town is remembering a series of shark attacks in 1916 that sparked fears of the predators that endure today. The town of Matawan (MA'-tuh-wahn) is conducting tours and seminars as it examines the first recorded fatal multiple shark attacks which left four people dead over 12 days. The first victim was a Philadelphia man who bled to death after he was attacked in the ocean off Beach Haven. He was followed five days later by a man who was attacked off Spring Lake. A shark then killed 11-year-old Lester Stillwell in Matawan Creek along with Stanley Fisher, who tried to recover the body. From July 9 through July 17, Matawan's Historical Society will hold events commemorating the attacks and understanding the role sharks play in the sea.