Rescued Dolphin Killed after Release

A dolphin that was wounded, rescued and rehabilitated for months was killed by sharks shortly after being set free in Tampa.

Dunham the dolphin was discovered last December, emaciated and suffering from a handful of superficial cuts. He was eventually transported to Gulf World Marine Park in Panama City, Fla., where he was treated for pneumonia and severe gastritis.

Dunham responded well to his treatment and bounced back. After eight months, officials felt he was ready to be on his own again. A transmitter was to monitor his progress and travels.

The team that had nursed him back to health was there for his release.

However, after months of tireless rescue and rehabilitation, Dunham was attacked by sharks and severely wounded shortly after being set free in the ocean.

"It's something that you witness that you don't actually believe your witnessing," a rescuer known only as Diane, said. "There were two different attacks. There was the first one -- it looked to be a small shark. His first attack was around his left pectoral fin. About 20 minutes after that attack, we witnessed a very large tiger shark, probably around the 8 to 9 foot range. Basically, the wound was so deep, through muscle tissue, down to internal organs."

Marine officials said they had no choice but to end the dolphin's suffering.

"You never know when it's going to happen. It happened today. It surprised us. It's unfortunate," David Yates said.