NEW YORK - Two Long Island beaches in Suffolk County were expected to reopen Monday after a lifeguard was bitten by a shark.Smith Point and Cupsogue Beach suspended swimming Sunday after the lifeguard was bitten during a training exercise."While shark attacks off Long Island Shores are extremely rare, officials will provide an update on the situation and outline additional measures residents can take to remain safe in the water," County Executive Steve Bellone's office said in a statement.
The lifeguard, identified as Zach Gallo, had been playing the role of a victim during a training exercise when the shark bit him in the chest and hand, Bellone told an afternoon news conference.The attack happened about 10:15 a.m.
at Smith Point Beach in Shirley. The lifeguard received stitches and was in "very good spirits," Bellone said."If you're going to have an encounter with a shark this is probably the best scenario you could have," Bellone said, adding the lifeguard received immediate treatment from other officials already engaged in the training. "We have never had an incident like this occur.