Woman Killed in Shark Attack at Dorsch Beach, Loses Arm

A woman from Minnesota has tragically died after being attacked by a shark at Dorsch Beach, St. Croix, in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The Virgin Islands Police Department confirmed that the incident occurred on January 8, 2026, at around 4:28 p.m. Authorities immediately responded to the scene and conducted a search for any other potential victims, but no additional individuals were found.

The deceased was later identified by her next of kin as Arlene Lillis. Officials confirmed that she succumbed to her injuries following the attack.

It reads below…..

“VIPD Respond to Suspected Shark Attack at Dorsch Beach St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands – On Thursday, January 8, 2026, at approximately 4:28 p.m., the 911 Emergency Call Center received several calls of a female who was suspected to be
bitten by a shark at Dorcsh Beach.
Marine units as well as Fire and Emergency Medical Services were dispatched to the scene.
Fire confirmed that the female lost an arm during the attack.
It was reported that there might be a second victim. St. Croix Rescue made a search of the
perimeter of the beach area and were unable to confirm that there was another victim.
The female later succumbed to her injures. She was identified by next of kin as 56-year-old
Arlene Lillis of Minnesota.
This investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to call 911, the Criminal
Investigation Bureau at 340-778-2211.”