An Orlando woman has died and a child was injured following two separate alligator attacks that occurred over the weekend in Central Florida. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) confirmed the incidents, which took place just days apart in Seminole and Marion counties. These events serve as a stark reminder of the persistent dangers associated with local waterways, occurring shortly after the 10th anniversary of the death of Lane Graves at Walt Disney World.
Seminole County Tragedy
The fatal incident occurred on Sunday in Seminole County near the Barr Street Trailhead in Little Big Econ State Forest. According to the FWC, a 31-year-old woman was hiking with her boyfriend and a friend when they stopped to swim in the Econlockhatchee River. The attack happened while she was in water approximately three feet deep.
The alligator snapped at both of the victim's arms as her companion attempted to pull her free. She was transported to a nearby hospital but succumbed to her injuries. Her identity has not been released by authorities. FWC spokesman Chad Weber noted that investigators have found no evidence suggesting the individuals were acting maliciously toward the animal.
Marion County Incident
The previous day, on Saturday, the FWC responded to a call in Marion County regarding an alligator bite involving a child. The incident took place at Nelson Fish Camp, where the child was fishing from the shore and sustained hand injuries. The victim was taken to a local hospital for treatment.
Following this attack, an FWC law enforcement officer euthanized the 8-foot-7-inch alligator responsible. In the Seminole County case, two nuisance alligators measuring 12 and 13 feet were captured near the scene, though it remains unclear if either was involved in the fatal attack.
Historical Context and Safety
Alligator attacks are rare but significant in Florida history. From 1948 to 2025, there were 346 unprovoked major attacks recorded by the FWC, with 32 resulting in death. In 2025 alone, two people were killed and eight suffered major injuries from alligator encounters.
The recent incidents echo the tragic event a decade ago involving Lane Graves at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. That incident led Orange County to install additional warning signs at swimming holes and boat ramps regarding snakes and gators.
FWC officials emphasize that keeping pets on leashes away from water edges, avoiding feeding alligators, and staying in designated swimming areas during daylight hours are critical safety measures. Residents concerned about wildlife can contact the Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR for assistance.
