Authorities have suspended the search for Erica Fox, a 55-year-old Monterey County resident and co-founder of the local open-water swimming group Kelp Krawlers, after an exhaustive multi-agency effort spanning more than 15 hours.
Fox vanished on Sunday, Dec. 21, while swimming off Lovers Point in Pacific Grove—a picturesque spot that sits inside Northern California’s infamous Red Triangle, one of the world’s most active great white shark zones.
Witnesses reported a chilling scene: a large splash offshore and, moments later, what appeared to be a shark breaching with a human body in its mouth before disappearing beneath the waves. “Based on witness statements, we believe a shark was involved,” said Pacific Grove Police Commander Brian Anderson.
Here’s what to know about the search for Fox and shark activity off the California coast.
What to know about the search for missing Monterey County swimmer
The search began immediately after Fox was reported missing around noon Sunday. Emergency crews from the Pacific Grove Police Department, Monterey Fire Department, and U.S. Coast Guard deployed boats, aircraft, drones, and divers. Despite covering more than 84 square nautical miles, no trace of Fox was found.
By Monday afternoon, the Coast Guard announced the suspension of active search operations. “The Coast Guard extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones affected by this tragic incident,” said Capt. Jordan Baldueza of Coast Guard Sector San Francisco.
Local beaches—including Lovers Point, McAbee, and San Carlos—will remain closed through Tuesday, Dec. 23, with advisories in effect for Asilomar State Beach, Monterey Municipal Beach, Del Monte Beach, and Monterey State Beach.
Shark activity in California: Fatalities and bites
Fatal Encounters Since 1993
California’s coastline is stunning—but it’s also home to apex predators. Since 1993, six human fatalities have been attributed to white sharks in California waters, according to state and international shark attack data.
Shark Bites in 2025
As of Dec. 22, three shark attacks on people have been reported in California this year, none of them fatal. Nationwide, the International Shark Attack File reports an average of 65 documented shark attacks annually, with 47 unprovoked bites recorded globally last year.
What is the Red Triangle in California and why is it so dangerous?
Stretching from Bodega Bay to Big Sur, the Red Triangle’s cold, nutrient-rich waters attract seals and sea lions—prime prey for great white sharks. This concentration of marine mammals makes the region one of the most active shark habitats on Earth. Lovers Point, a favorite among swimmers and kayakers, sits squarely within this zone.
The Red Triangle’s waters are cold and nutrient-rich, creating an ideal environment for marine life. Large populations of seals, sea lions, and elephant seals thrive along this coastline, and these animals are the primary prey for great white sharks. When these mammals congregate near shore, sharks follow—bringing them closer to areas where humans swim, surf, and kayak.
The Red Triangle numbers
Are shark attacks a major threat in California?
Marine biologists say shark encounters in California are rare but not random.
“Great whites are not actively hunting humans—they’re following their food sources,” explained Dr. Chris Lowe, director of the Shark Lab at California State University, Long Beach. “When seals and sea lions congregate near shore, sharks may come closer than usual.”
Lowe added that most shark bites are cases of mistaken identity:
“In murky water or low light, a shark might confuse a swimmer or surfer for a seal. Once they realize the mistake, they often release the person and swim away.”
Dr. Salvador Jorgensen, a research scientist at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, emphasized that the Red Triangle’s geography makes it unique:
“This region is a hotspot because of the dense marine mammal population. It’s part of the sharks’ natural feeding grounds, and that’s why we see higher activity here compared to other parts of the coast.”
Both experts stress that while shark attacks make headlines, the risk remains extremely low compared to other ocean hazards.
“Statistically, you’re far more likely to be injured driving to the beach than by a shark,” Lowe said.
Safety swimming tips for ocean swimming in California
Fox was a beloved figure in Monterey’s open-water swimming community. Her disappearance has shaken locals and reignited conversations about ocean safety. Officials urge swimmers to:
“We share our waters with wildlife,” Anderson reminded the public. “Be aware of your surroundings.”
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Search ends for Monterey County swimmer after suspected shark attack
Reporting by Roseann Cattani, Natalie Neysa Alund and James Ward, Palm Springs Desert Sun / Palm Springs Desert Sun
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