Shark sighting prompts Newport Beach closure

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. (KABC) -- An 8-foot hammerhead shark sighting prompted a closure of the waters along Newport Beach Monday morning.

The shark was spotted in the water near the end of Newport Pier around 11 a.m. The beach was subsequently closed for one mile in each direction from the sighting, from 10th to 40th streets.

Officials said the shark did not display any aggressive behavior, and the closures were put in place as standard protocol.

Signs were posted warning surfers and swimmers of the shark sighting, which lifeguards say marks the second sighting in recent months.

The closure was lifted around 4:30 p.m. when authorities said there had not been any more sightings in the area.

A shark advisory warning will remain in effect until at least Tuesday morning, according to Jennifer Manzella of the Newport Beach Police Department.

City New Service contributed to this report.