Brunswick County officials said a 19-year-old male surfer suffered a suspected shark bite to his right foot around 2 p.m. and was transported to New Hanover Hospital in Wilmington.
One witness said she saw a young man running across the beach bleeding.
The victim's grandmother told WWAY that the 19-year-old was out in the surf when he was bit by what he believes is a shark. She described it as a "deep tooth bite" on his foot.
According to officials, the patient is stable and talking with staff.
The incident is being investigated by Ocean Isle Police and NC Wild Life.