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August 19, 2003

Deborah Franzman, of Nipomo, was killed as she swam 75 yards offshore alongside a group of seals. Witnesses reported seeing a large fin as Franzman screamed for help.

Lifeguards pulled Franzman to shore, where she died. Bite marks on her legs were consistent with those seen in previous attacks by great white sharks.

witnesses claim the bite on the woman's body was a foot wide.

"Just her side was completely ripped out. She had gouges on both sides of her legs," said witness Travis Warren.

Shark expert Robert Lea, present during the autopsy, estimated the fish was between 15 and 18 feet long.

"That's incredibly large," Basti said.

An unknown species of shark was spotted in the area after the attack, Basti said.

Franzman likely bled to death after her left femoral artery was severed in the attack, Basti said.

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swimming , attack , shark , shark attack , fatal , swimming with seals , great white