UPDATE: Child Bitten by Shark at Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange – RLS Media

West Orange

Emergency responders are on the scene at Turtle Back Zoo, where a guest was bitten by an animal on Saturday afternoon.

The Honorable Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo said in a statement that a 12-year-old girl was feeding the stingrays in the touch tank, which also has epaulette sharks when allegedly a shark bit the girl on the finger.

County Executive DiVincenzo told the RLS Metro Morming Crew that Turtle Back Zoo staff responded quickly and provided the girl with a band-aid and antibacterial cream and EMS was called.

When EMS arrived, the cut was covered by the band-aid, the bleeding had stopped and the family declined care from the technicians.

“Because the family wanted to leave, Zoo staff provided free passes for a return visit,” County Executive DiVencenzo said.

“We pride ourselves on providing our visitors with an educational and fun experience and all efforts are made to keep our visitors and animals safe.”

The incident is under investigation.