12-Foot Alligator Mauls Florida Fisherman To Death, Rescuers Struggle to Recover Body From Water
A 71-year-old fisherman was killed by a nearly 12-foot alligator at a Florida park on Friday, Oct. 16, while emergency crews faced delays reaching him because of the danger posed by other alligators in the water. The victim, identified as Steven Hamilton, was fishing along the shoreline of a pond at Dr. Bradford Memorial Park in Winter Garden when the animal pulled him into the water.
Hamilton was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). His body was recovered at approximately 7 p.m., nearly two hours after emergency crews were called to the park.
Rescuers Face Peril From Other Alligators in the Pond
Winter Garden emergency crews responded at around 5:20 p.m. following a 911 call reporting a possible alligator attack, Fire Chief Jose Gainza said, according to FOX 35 Orlando. Hamilton had been fishing along the shoreline of a pond near Lake Apopka when the attack occurred. Gainza said the presence of several active alligators made it difficult for rescuers to enter the water safely.
According to local station WKMG, Gainza said Hamilton remained in the pond for about an hour before his body could be recovered. The FWC and Winter Garden police are investigating the fatal incident.
A Nearly 12-Foot Alligator Captured and Killed
Authorities removed the suspected alligator, which measured 11 feet, 8 inches, according to the FWC. Winter Garden Police Capt. Michael Mason confirmed the animal had been taken from the park, eliminating the immediate threat it posed to the public.
The FWC expressed its condolences to Hamilton’s family and loved ones, saying in a statement to PEOPLE “The FWC extends its deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of the victim during this time.” The commission added that the investigation remained active and that further information was not available at the time of its statement.
Residents Urged to Stay Alert Around Alligator Habitats
Dr. Bradford Memorial Park has access to waterways connected to Lake Apopka, which the FWC identifies as an area with one of Central Florida’s largest American alligator populations. Following Hamilton’s death, Mason urged residents to exercise caution around Florida’s waterways.
“Always be aware of your surroundings. Always be safe,” he said, according to PEOPLE. “Local wildlife, respect it. Keep your distance.”
The FWC has said serious injuries caused by alligators are rare in Florida, but the animals can be dangerous even when they appear calm. The agency advises people not to approach or feed alligators and provides a Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-392-4286 for concerns about an animal that may threaten people, pets or property.
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