An Erie woman who worked at Gannon University was attacked and killed by a bull shark Tuesday while snorkeling with her family at a popular snorkeling spot in the Bahamas.

The victim - Caroline DiPlacido, 58 - was the project coordinator for Gannon's Office of Community and Government Relations.

It happened around 2 p.m. Tuesday while DiPlacido was snorkeling with her family near Green Cay, which is near Rose Island and Nassau.

She was part of a group of around five to seven cruise ship passengers, including her husband, daughter and son, who booked a tour with a local snorkel excursion company.

Investigators say family members saw DiPlacido being attacked by the shark. Along with boat operators, they were able to rescue her and bring her onboard.

DiPlacido was taken to the closest docking facility, but she was pronounced dead, according to media outlets in the Bahamas.

The beach at Green Cay has been closed until further notice, authorities said.

Gannon University remembered DiPlacido in a message to the campus community Wednesday:

"Along with her efforts to further the mission of Erie-GAINS and Our West Bayfront, Caroline was a powerful presence of kindness and friendship to colleagues, students, and the wider community and cherished many family ties to Gannon. The news is devastating, and she will be missed."

A private prayer service is being held on campus Wednesday afternoon.

Photos courtesy of Eyewitness News Bahamas