ABC News December 22, 2019

Surfer reportedly attacked by shark off Southern California coast in 'truly terrifying situation': Coast Guard

WATCH: Surfer reportedly attacked by shark off coast of Southern California

A man who was reportedly bitten on the leg by a shark off the coast of Southern California was recovering Sunday.

The 37-year-old had been surfing near Santa Rosa Island Saturday afternoon when the attack took place, according to the U.S. Coast Guard.

(MORE: 2 men lucky to be alive after giant 19-foot great white shark attacks kayak)

A good Samaritan traveling on board a boat notified authorities of the injured surfer. A tourniquet was placed on his leg to prevent further blood loss, authorities said.

A Coast Guard helicopter crew airlifted the man to seek further aid from paramedics.

U.S. Coast Guard Los Angeles
The U.S. Coast Guard rescued a 37-year-old man from the ocean after he was reportedly bitten by a shark off the coast of Southern California.

Authorities posted a video of the rescue on Twitter, which shows the man wearing a wetsuit while being hoisted from a boat to the helicopter.

(MORE: 19-year-old surfer gets 50 stitches after shark attacks him off California coast)

The victim was later transported to a local hospital where he was listed in stable condition, firefighters shared on Twitter.

"This was the best possible outcome to a truly terrifying situation," Coast Guard Lt. Benjamin McIntyre-Coble said in a news release. "This individual was fortunate to be with a buddy who was able to communicate their position to the Coast Guard. We are all happy that he will be able to be with his family in time for the holidays."

Officials did not specify what type of shark attacked the man.