The carcass of a dead whale spotted just off Lovers Point a little before 1pm on Wednesday, June 3 prompted the Pacific Grove Police Department to shut down beach access "out of an abundance of caution and in the interest of public safety," according to an announcement from city officials.
"Marine mammal carcasses can attract sharks, particularly larger predatory species, which is the primary concern prompting this precautionary measure," the announcement states.
The police department is coordinating with wildlife and other agencies as the situation progresses. More information will be released as its available.