Man Who Helped 9-Year-Old Shark Attack Victim Arrested by ICE

Originally posted on SURFER | By Dashel Pierson | Last updated Jul 1, 2025 12:29 PM ET

A man who rushed into the water to help rescue a nine-year-old shark attack victim has been arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Luis Alvarez, 31, was driving in the early hours of the morning on June 14th in Collier County, Florida when he was pulled over for not having his headlights on. According to an arrest report obtained by USA Today, when asked for his license, Alvarez showed the officer a picture of his Employment Authorization Card on his phone.

The Nicaraguan native was arrested for driving without a license, and now faces deportation. Below, he can be seen in police bodycam footage from the shark attack.

Alvarez’s arrest comes days after he helped Leah Lendel, a nine-year-old girl, who was attacked by a shark while swimming at Boca Grande beach in Florida. A handful of construction workers, who were taking a break nearby, jumped in the water to help. Among them was Alvarez. According to one of the men, Raynel Lugo, Alvarez was fearless:

"He jumped in that area to bring her out when I was assisting Leah," Lugo told local news. "He went deep underwater, not even caring about the shark. He went really deep. He probably faced the shark. He’s a real decent guy, a family guy.”

As for Lendel, she nearly lost her hand in the attack. However, miraculously, doctors were able to reattach the limb. Following the incident, Lendel’s mother described what happened:

“She was snorkeling in probably four feet deep water. She dipped down, like she always does, and she’s down by my feet. And then she flies out. I just saw her hand hanging, like a piece, there was blood everywhere. I just started screaming.”

A GofundMe account has been started to assist in Lendel’s medical fees.

Alvarez is scheduled to appear in court on July 9th.

This article first appeared on SURFER and was syndicated with permission.

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