A 56-year-old woman from Minnesota has died following a shark attack in the US Virgin Islands.
Arlene Lillis was pronounced dead after the incident at Dorcsh Beach on the island of St Croix on Thursday afternoon.
Emergency services received multiple 911 calls shortly before 4.30pm local time reporting that a woman had been attacked by a shark.
The attack occurred roughly 90 minutes before sunset.
Police, marine units, firefighters and paramedics were dispatched to the scene.
Witnesses told authorities they had seen a shark with a body in its mouth following the attack.
Fire officials confirmed that Ms Lillis lost an arm and subsequently died from her injuries.
Initial reports suggested there may have been a second victim in the water.
Arlene Lillis was pronounced dead after the incident at Dorsch Beach on the island of St Croix (pictured)
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St Croix Rescue conducted a search of the beach perimeter - but found no other casualties.
Authorities have not disclosed whether the shark responsible has been located.
According to USVI Shark Diving, the sharks in the waters around the US Virgin Islands include Caribbean reef sharks, hammerheads, lemon sharks, blacktip sharks, nurse sharks and tiger sharks
Police said the investigation into the incident is continuing.
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Authorities have not yet disclosed whether the shark responsible has been located (file photo)
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Governor Albert Bryan Jr, following the tragedy, said: "Our hearts are with the family and loved ones of the victim, and with everyone who witnessed this tragedy.
"We have been briefed on the information known at this time, and we are grateful to the bystanders who acted immediately to render aid and to the first responders who worked urgently and bravely in an effort to save her life."
The Governor praised those at the scene who rushed to help Ms Lillis.
He also commended emergency personnel for their efforts to save her.
Lieutenant Governor Tregenza A Roach also offered his condolences to those affected.
"On behalf of the people of the Virgin Islands, I extend our deepest condolences to the victim's family and all who are grieving this loss," Mr Roach said.
"In moments like this, we are reminded how quickly life can change.
"We thank the individuals on the scene who stepped forward to help, and we commend our first responders for their swift action and professionalism under extremely difficult circumstances."