Authorities in Scarborough, Maine, have issued a public warning after reports of a great white shark swimming near three of the state’s most visited beaches. The roughly 10- to 12-foot (over 3 meters) shark was spotted on Monday near Crescent Beach State Park, Higgins Beach, and Pine Point Beach — all within a short drive from Portland.
Scarborough’s marine resource officer received the report and confirmed the sighting, prompting increased vigilance in the area.
Drone Footage Captures the Shark in Action
Commercial clam fisherman David Lancaster captured drone footage showing the shark gliding just beneath the surface, with its grey fin breaking the water. Lancaster described the moment as both surprising and awe-inspiring.
“It was pretty crazy to see in the local waters. There are some really amazing creatures in the sea,” Lancaster said. “It’s in the back of your head, but you have to accept it.”
Why White Sharks Appear in Maine Waters
While white sharks have been part of Maine’s marine ecosystem for centuries, sightings are relatively rare. Experts note that a growing seal population may be attracting more sharks to the region, as seals are a primary food source.
These sharks, often associated with the 1975 film Jaws, are apex predators but seldom pose a threat to humans.
Scarborough Police Share Warning and Safety Message
The Scarborough Police Department released Lancaster’s drone footage for “public situational awareness,” stressing the importance of informing the community promptly.
Fatal shark attacks in Maine are extremely uncommon. The state recorded its first fatal incident in 2020, when 63-year-old Julie Dimperio Holowach was killed by a great white shark off Bailey Island. Since then, officials have strengthened monitoring and warning systems at popular beaches.
