17.10.2026 22:21
Steven Hamilton, 71, who went to the lake shore to fish in the US state of Florida, fell victim to an unexpected attack. Search efforts launched after no news could be received from the elderly man, who was pulled into the water by an approximately 3.6-meter-long alligator, ended in a tragic conclusion. Teams reached Hamilton’s lifeless body, while the attacking alligator was caught and killed.
Steven Hamilton, 71, who went to the lake shore to fish in the U.S. state of Florida, died as a result of an attack by an alligator about 3.6 meters long. While teams mobilized for Hamilton, who was pulled into the water while he was on the shore, other alligators in the area made rescue efforts difficult.
ATTACKED WHILE FISHING ON THE SHORE
The incident occurred on Friday, October 16, at Dr. Bradford Memorial Park in the Winter Garden area of Florida. Hamilton, who was fishing on the bank of a pond near Lake Apopka, was attacked by an alligator about 3.6 meters long and pulled into the water.
Following the report, police, fire and rescue teams were dispatched to the area at around 17:00. However, the presence of other alligators in the water made intervention and efforts to reach the body difficult. Hamilton's lifeless body was recovered from the water about two hours later.
THE ATTACKING ALLIGATOR WAS CAUGHT AND KILLED
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) announced that the alligator considered to be connected to the attack had been caught and killed. It was stated that the animal was about 3.6 meters long.
Officials reported that they had not received any reports of an alligator being seen in the area before the attack. However, it was noted that alligators are commonly found in Lake Apopka and surrounding waters.
WARNING FROM OFFICIALS
Winter Garden police called on people spending time around the lake and ponds to be careful. Officials noted that wild animals that appear calm can also pose a serious danger and emphasized that people should not approach alligators.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing.