A Tale of Survival: Two Friends Recount Their Shark Attack Ordeal

In a harrowing incident that has left their lives forever changed, two friends, Rileigh Decker and Summer Layman, found themselves in the unimaginable situation of being bitten by a shark while vacationing in the Bahamas. The attack occurred on Friday, February 7, 2025, in the pristine waters of Bimini Bay, a location known for its beauty and tranquility. What began as a leisurely swim quickly turned into a fight for survival, leaving both women with physical and emotional scars. Now back in the United States, they are undergoing recovery and reflecting on the terrifying moments that could have easily taken their lives. Their story is one of courage, friendship, and gratitude, offering a poignant reminder of the unpredictable nature of life.

The Unexpected Attack: A Moment of Terror

Rileigh Decker, 20, and Summer Layman, 24, had been enjoying a day on the water with friends when they decided to take a swim. Jumping off their friend’s boat, they began making their way back to the vessel when the unthinkable happened. Decker recalled the moment vividly: "We were swimming to the ladder, and I kind of felt something nudge my leg." Initially dismissing it as a bump from a fish or debris, they continued swimming. But the situation quickly escalated when Decker felt a sharp tug on her leg. "I knew right then and there that I was bit," she said, her voice still laced with emotion. The realization sent a wave of panic through both women, setting off a chain of events that would test their strength and resilience.

Layman, who has a medical background, sprang into action, guiding their friend to wrap a towel around Decker’s leg and secure a makeshift tourniquet above her knee. The quick thinking likely prevented further blood loss and bought them precious time until help arrived. Meanwhile, Layman had no idea she too had been bitten until others pointed out the blood and shredded tissue on her foot. "We both were panicking in that moment," Layman admitted, recalling the chaos and fear that gripped them. The attack, believed to have been carried out by a bull shark, left both women with significant injuries, but their survival is a testament to their composure and teamwork.

The Aftermath: Injuries and Recovery

The shark’s bite left Decker with severe injuries, including a puncture wound to her tibia bone and a lacerated Achilles tendon. Layman, though initially unaware of her own injury, suffered a deep wound to her foot. Both women were rushed to a local clinic in the Bahamas for initial treatment before being airlifted to New Providence for further medical care. Eventually, they were brought back to the United States, where Decker has already undergone two surgeries and is expected to require at least one more to fully repair her leg. Layman’s injuries, while less severe, have also necessitated medical attention, and both women are now focusing on their long and challenging road to recovery.

Despite the physical pain and emotional trauma, both Decker and Layman are incredibly grateful to be alive. "All we can do now is just be very grateful that we’re still here because it could have ended very differently," Decker said, her words reflecting a mix of relief and humility. Layman echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of leaning on each other during this difficult time. "We’ll get through this together," she said, highlighting the unbreakable bond between the two friends. Their positivity and resilience in the face of such a traumatic event serve as an inspiration to all who hear their story.

A Debt of Gratitude: The Role of Friends and Family

Decker and Layman are quick to acknowledge the role their friends played in their survival. Without the rapid actions of those on the boat, the outcome could have been far more dire. "If they weren’t there, we wouldn’t be here," Decker said, her voice filled with gratitude. The-On-the-spot first aid provided by Layman, coupled with the quick response of their friends, undoubtedly saved lives that day. The support they received in the aftermath of the attack has also been a source of comfort, with both women expressing deep appreciation for the love and care they’ve received from their families and loved ones.

A Rare but Frightening Reality: Shark Attacks in Perspective

While the incident has left an indelible mark on Decker and Layman, it is important to put such events into perspective. Shark attacks, though terrifying, are exceedingly rare. According to the Florida Museum of Natural History’s International Shark Attack File, there were only 47 unprovoked shark bites recorded worldwide in 2024. The Bahamas, in particular, saw a deadly attack in 2023 when a 44-year-old woman from Massachusetts was killed while paddleboarding. While such incidents are tragic, they underscore just how uncommon they are. For Decker and Layman, the experience has been life-altering, but it has also reinforced their appreciation for the fragility and beauty of life.

In conclusion, the story of Rileigh Decker and Summer Layman is one of survival, friendship, and resilience. Their ordeal serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. As they continue on their path to recovery, they carry with them a deeper understanding of life’s fragility and a renewed sense of gratitude for the people and experiences that make it worthwhile. Their story, though born out of terror, is ultimately one of hope and the human spirit’s ability to overcome even the most daunting challenges.