In the United States, the term “road trip” usually brings to mind images of open roads, scenic views, beautiful geography and an adventurous, new exploratory experience for many individuals. Across the continental United States, thousands of people each year enjoy taking cross country vacations in which parts of the vast and beautiful nation are explored and experienced. The country is so large that most Americans do not get to explore the entirety of the nation in their lifetime. While these vacation and adventure experiences are more often than not filled with happy and memorable moments, they do not come without dangers.
In 2021 a young woman named Gabby Petito made national headlines after going missing in a Wyoming national park; her remains were later discovered and her boyfriend admitted in a suicide note that he committed the murder. In another recent development, a 21 year old California man was killed and his brother was lacerated by a mountain lion in what has been called the first deadly attack in over about decades. The last fatal attack occurred in the year 2004.
Mountain lions aren’t the only natural creatures posing a threat to humans this summer. In Texas, a shark attack occurred on South Padre Texas on July 4th in which a woman lost her calf after being bitten by a shark. Tabatha Sullivent was swimming with her daughter and husband celebrating their daughter’s birthday and Independence Day when she was attacked by the shark. Her husband jumped into action and was attacked by the shark as well, but he and good Samaritans got Tabatha out of the water. Her life was saved, and doctors are optimistic she may be able to keep her leg and walk again with surgeries and therapy. Several other individuals encountered the shark as well. The incident is a chilling reminder of the risks that are associated with beachgoing swimming affairs and highlight life’s precious nature.
