Experts suspect Solorio was killed by a 15- to 16-foot great white shark. "It happened fast. I know you guys are probably really wanting to see Bethany and little baby. A bethany hamilton photos there was likely a trigger that caused the sharks to attack the college student while she was snorkeling and scientists say it is not normal shark behavior. Fanning managed to squarely on the shark's back, and he escaped without a scratch. She sees her passion for surfing as a gift from God and as what compelled her to go back to the sport against all odds.