OAK ISLAND, NC (WWAY) -- It was a shocking sight for some residents of Oak Island on the beach yesterday when about 50 sharks were lying by the shore dead, ranging anywhere between 1 to 4 feet in size.
It was scene that nobody expect to see when they walk down the beautiful beaches of Oak Island, about 50 dead sharks sprawled across the sand.
"First time ever, I've lived in Oak Island for some time and walk the beach regularly and I've seen dead fish in the surf from time to time but nothing like that, ever", said Oak Island resident, Mike Boswell.
NC Division of Marine Fisheries spokeswoman Patricia Smith say they received a call Sunday and immediately sent a marine patrol officer to the scene, but it was already clear.
Officials say since the area was small, they think bycatch caused the issue. That's when marine animals are caught and thrown back because they aren't the intended catch. Officials say this threatens marine biodiversity worldwide.
If you ever see something like happen, you are asked to contact the North Carolina Division of Marines Fisheries at (252) 726-7021.
