Swim Instructor Recovers After Otter Attack at Lake Tahoe

Lynette Bellin, a swim instructor at Lake Tahoe, is recovering after an otter attacked her on the lake’s east shore on Sunday, resulting in 38 stitches. Following the incident, she shared videos showing her injuries, which included blood on her face, hands, and legs.

Bellin was in the water for approximately 30 minutes when she felt something tugging at her leg. Initially thinking it was a person, she soon realized it was an otter and attempted to fend it off. The otter continued to pursue her, leading her to climb onto a rock for safety. Eventually, she made her way to a bike trail where a cyclist contacted authorities. Emergency responders, including sheriffs and rangers, arrived, and Bellin was taken to the hospital for treatment.

The Nevada Department of Wildlife noted that while river otters are native to the area, attacks on humans are rare. Bellin expressed her love for swimming in Tahoe and her fear of returning to the water after the attack. She emphasized the importance of swimming skills, stating that being a competent swimmer helped her manage the situation effectively.