Claire Macdonel suffered serious hand injuries while swimming in shallow water during a trip celebrating her 13th birthday.
SUGAR LAND, TX — A 13-year-old Sugar Land girl is recovering after a barracuda bit her hand while she was swimming during a family vacation in Turks and Caicos earlier this month.
Claire Macdonel suffered several cuts and puncture wounds during the brief encounter, which happened on the first full day of a trip celebrating her birthday. She received emergency treatment in Turks and Caicos before returning to the Houston area, where doctors planned further treatment for damage to her hand.
Claire said she was performing a handstand in about 4 to 5 feet of water when she suddenly felt strong pressure on her hand. The bite lasted only seconds. When she stood up, she saw blood running along her arm and noticed a large silver tail moving away.
Her mother, Jen Macdonel, was nearby and helped Claire reach the beach. A woman onshore who identified herself as a nurse offered assistance and made a tourniquet to control the bleeding while the family waited for an ambulance.
Claire was taken to a local emergency room, where medical workers cleaned the wounds and placed a loose suture. Her mother said an orthopedic surgeon focused first on stabilizing the injury and reducing the risk of infection.
After several hours of treatment, Claire was released from the emergency room. She was able to remain with her family for the rest of the vacation before returning home to Texas.
Reports published Tuesday said Claire was preparing to undergo surgery to repair an injured tendon. The procedure was scheduled for Wednesday, July 29, but an update on its outcome had not been publicly reported as of Thursday.
Claire said she had been wearing reflective jewelry, including a shiny bracelet, and believes the barracuda may have mistaken the reflection for prey. No official finding about what prompted the fish to bite has been released.
The attack has not changed Claire’s goal of becoming a marine biologist. She said one bad experience would not end her interest in animals or ocean life. Her family said she has remained positive during her recovery and jokingly named the barracuda “Suzie.”
Claire is continuing her recovery in the Houston area. Further details about her surgery, treatment plan and expected recovery period have not been released.
Author note: Last updated July 30, 2026.