Surfer killed in shark attack in Northern Calif. is identified

APTOS, Calif. — A surfer killed in a shark attack off a Northern California beach has been identified as a 26-year-old man who lived in the area, officials said.

The victim was surfing Saturday afternoon near Manresa State Beach on the northern end of Monterey Bay when he was attacked by a shark of unknown species, California State Parks said in a statement.

Coroner’s officials identified him as Ben Kelly, a resident of Santa Cruz County, according to KRON-TV on Sunday. Kelly died at the scene. Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s deputies notified his family.

north and south of the attack are closed until Thursday. Signs were posted warning beachgoers about the attack.

One sign said it happened within 100 yards of shore.