Shark Dies During Kmart Advert Filming In US

A white tip shark shipped from New York and placed into an outdoor pool in Los Angeles for a Kmart advertisement has died after showing signs of distress.

The American Humane Association (AHA), which monitored the production, said everything was done to try to save the 5ft-long shark but it died after being moved to an aquatic compound for care on March 6.

The animal rights group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta), which said it received details of the shark's death from two on-set whistleblowers, criticised the AHA.

In a letter to the group, Peta said: "Sharks are sensitive animals who, in captivity, require a highly specialised and controlled environment.

"Given the delicate nature of this species, why would the AHA approve the transport and use of this animal?"

Karen Rosa of the AHA said the shark was placed into a 60,000-gallon (272,765-litre) outdoor tank, adding that it was a good amount of water for the animal.

"We honestly don't know why the animal died. It was not being mistreated. It was not being harmed," Ms Rosa said.

Once the shark showed distress signs, oxygen was pumped into the tank and the shark was given a shot of adrenaline to try to stabilise it, Ms Rosa said.

"We take this matter seriously and safety is always our paramount concern," Howard Riefs, a spokesman for Kmart owner Sears Holdings, said in a statement.

The death follows longstanding criticism of the use of animals in Hollywood productions.

Last year, the horse-racing show Luck on HBO was axed after the deaths of three horses used in the drama series.