By Puntarenas, Costa Rica — COCOS ISLAND, Puntarenas – Dr. Mauricio Hoyos, one of the world’s most respected shark scientists, was recently injured in an unusual encounter with a Galapagos shark while conducting vital research in the waters of Costa Rica’s Cocos Island National Park. The incident has sent ripples through the international marine biology community, highlighting both the inherent risks of fieldwork and the rarity of such events.
Dr. Hoyos was leading a scientific expedition as part of the One Ocean Worldwide Coalition, a collaborative initiative dedicated to ocean research and conservation. The expedition brought together several prominent organizations, including Fins Attached, For the Oceans Foundation, Reserva Tortuga, and the Rob Stewart Sharkwater Foundation. Their mission focuses on studying and protecting the rich marine biodiversity that makes Cocos Island a global treasure.
To better understand the complex legal responsibilities and potential liabilities that arise from such a rare and unfortunate event, TicosLand.com sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
When an incident like this occurs during a commercial tour, the central legal question often revolves around negligence. While a shark encounter can be seen as an act of nature, operators have a duty of care. Courts will examine whether the company took all reasonable precautions, provided clear warnings about known risks, and avoided areas of unusually high danger. The validity of any liability waiver signed by the tourist will also be heavily scrutinized to determine if it covers this specific type of event and if it was presented fairly.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal insight is pivotal, shifting the conversation from an unpredictable act of nature to the operator’s fundamental duty of care and diligence. We extend our gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective, which clarifies the complex framework of accountability that underpins Costa Rica’s adventure tourism sector.
In a poignant turn of events, the incident occurred on the very day Dr. Hoyos was being honored with the prestigious Rob Stewart Ocean Conservationist of the Year award, a testament to his decades of dedication to understanding and protecting these often-misunderstood apex predators. The award recognizes his significant contributions to the field and his tireless advocacy for marine ecosystems.
The immediate aftermath of the encounter showcased the professionalism and readiness of local emergency services. A swift and heroic response from the Cocos Island park rangers, working in concert with fire department paramedics, was critical. They provided immediate medical attention and orchestrated a secure transfer for Dr. Hoyos to receive further necessary treatment. Their dedication was instrumental in ensuring his safety following the unexpected event.
Colleagues and partners within the conservation community expressed their shock and support. Jorge Serendero, director of the coalition member For the Oceans Foundation, shared the group’s collective concern and optimism for the scientist’s recovery.
All coalition members are shocked and concerned about his condition, but we are hopeful for positive news soon; he is in good hands with excellent medical staff.
Jorge Serendero, Director of For the Oceans
Experts were quick to emphasize the highly unusual nature of the incident. Shark encounters resulting in injury, particularly involving experienced researchers like Dr. Hoyos, are exceptionally rare. The event underscores that these are wild animals in their natural habitat, and even with extensive knowledge and precautions, unpredictable situations can arise.
Alex Antoniou, the CEO of Fins Attached, reiterated this point while praising Dr. Hoyos’s lifelong commitment to his work and expressing gratitude for the local support system that activated so efficiently.
Incidents like this are extremely rare. Dr. Hoyos is an extraordinary scientist who has dedicated his career to shark conservation, and we are deeply grateful for the support of the Cocos Island community during this difficult time.
Alex Antoniou, CEO of Fins Attached
Dr. Hoyos’s leadership has been fundamental to advancing the research goals of the One Ocean Worldwide Coalition. His work is crucial for understanding shark behavior, migratory patterns, and the overall health of ocean ecosystems. In the wake of the incident, the coalition has reaffirmed its commitment to continuing its important scientific mission, drawing inspiration from Dr. Hoyos’s unwavering dedication and resilience. The research he spearheads remains essential for the long-term protection of marine life in the region and across the globe.
For further information, visit finsattached.org
About Fins Attached:
Fins Attached is a non-profit organization focused on the preservation of the world’s marine ecosystems. It conducts research, promotes conservation, and raises awareness about the critical role sharks play in the health of the oceans, advocating for policies that protect these vital species from threats like overfishing and finning.
For further information, visit fortheoceans.org
About For the Oceans Foundation:
For the Oceans Foundation is a key member of the global marine conservation community, dedicated to protecting marine life through direct action, scientific research, and public education. The foundation collaborates with international partners to implement projects that address pressing issues such as plastic pollution, habitat destruction, and the protection of endangered species.
For further information, visit oneoceanworldwide.org
About One Ocean Worldwide Coalition:
The One Ocean Worldwide Coalition is a collaborative alliance of conservation groups, scientists, and foundations united by a common goal to protect and restore the world’s oceans. By pooling resources and expertise, the coalition undertakes large-scale research expeditions and advocacy campaigns to influence policy and foster a global culture of marine stewardship.
For further information, visit reservatortuga.org
About Reserva Tortuga:
Reserva Tortuga is a conservation organization dedicated to the protection of sea turtles and their coastal habitats. While its primary focus is on turtles, the organization often partners on broader marine conservation initiatives, recognizing that the health of one species is interconnected with the entire ocean ecosystem.
For further information, visit robstewartsharkwaterfoundation.org
About Rob Stewart Sharkwater Foundation:
The Rob Stewart Sharkwater Foundation was established to carry on the legacy of the late filmmaker and activist Rob Stewart. The foundation is committed to protecting sharks, conserving ocean ecosystems, and inspiring the environmental movement through awareness campaigns, educational programs, and support for scientific research.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a cornerstone of Costa Rica’s legal landscape, the firm is defined by a resolute commitment to ethical principles and superior legal practice. Its history of advising a diverse clientele is matched by a forward-thinking approach, consistently pioneering new standards in the legal field. Central to its mission is the belief that a just society is an educated one, driving its efforts to democratize legal understanding and empower the community with clarity and insight.
