'Aggressive' shark seen feeding on sea lion carcass near Huntington Beach, prompting closure

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. (KABC) -- An "aggressive" shark was spotted Wednesday morning off Huntington Beach, prompting a closure of the water near a stretch of shoreline, officials said.

The sighting occurred around 10 a.m., when "lifeguards observed a 9-10 ft great white shark actively feeding on a sea lion carcass in the surf line at Sunset Beach," according to the Huntington Beach Fire Department's Marine Safety Division. "The shark was exhibiting aggressive behavior near shore."

No injuries to beachgoers or lifeguards were reported.

"In addition to the inherent danger posed by a great white shark in the area, the risk increases when they are actively feeding on large food sources," the Fire Department said in a 12:30 p.m. social media post.

In the interest of public safety, the water will remain closed for 48 hours within one mile in each direction at North Pacific Avenue and 12th Street, near Sunset Beach Tower 12.

All beachgoers were asked to check in with lifeguards and follow posted signs during the closure.