Shark sighting, possible lifeguard attack halts swimming at LI beach

A shark was spotted in the waters off Jones Beach on Tuesday — just a day after a lifeguard was apparently attacked by one of the predators at the Long Island state park.

The sighting took place just after 11 a.m., and folks were ordered to get out of the ocean, according to New York State Parks officials.

Swimming remained closed for at least an hour.

Parks officials said several other local shark sightings have been reported during the last week — including Monday morning, when a Jones Beach lifeguard was possibly bitten by one.

The lifeguard was on his bodyboard about 15 yards from shore when he felt something gnawing his ankle, a source told NBC 4 New York.

He was left with a 1-inch gash on his leg and treated at the scene before being taken to a hospital for further examination, officials said.

Swimming was suspended for three hours after the incident, and state police launched a drone to inspect the waters.

Officials on Tuesday said they would heighten patrols along the Long Island State Park Beaches, including Jones Beach and Robert Moses State Parks. Cops were using drones, as well as a helicopter to monitor the area, a state-police spokesman said.

“With assistance from New York State Police, we are expanding our measures to patrol for sharks and other potentially dangerous marine animals,” State Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said in a statement. “I encourage all New Yorkers to familiarize themselves with the steps they can take to stay safe while enjoying a day at the beach.”