By The Daily Caller (U.S.) | Created at 2026-10-19 14:36:14 | Updated at 2026-10-19 18:42:04
16 hours ago
A Florida community is in mourning following a 71-year-old man being attacked and killed by a massive alligator Friday evening while on a fishing trip.
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), the man has been identified as Steven Hamilton, who was from Winter Garden. The identification came after emergency crews attempted to rescue the 71-year-old from the water along the Lake Apopka shore.
The effort was made difficult due to active alligators being in nearby water. (RELATED: Alaska: Bear Commits 2AM Break-In At Hospital, Steals Halloween Candy)
The approximately 12-foot-long alligator was trapped after the attack, and ultimately killed, according to the Winter Garden Police Department.
Michael Mason, the Winter Garden Police Chief, said that many alligators are in the lake due to the animals being opportunistic feeders.
Florida is ranked No. 1 in the United States for alligator attacks, and according to researchers, 96 percent of recorded incidents happen because of risk-taking or human inattention prior to the bite.
Speaking with FOX News Digital, the police chief said that officials were not aware prior to the attack that one of the alligators was near the shore.
According to state officials, this is the second fatal alligator attack to take place in Florida in 2026. American alligators are found all across the Sunshine State, however, attacks are rare.
“Always be aware of your surroundings. Always be safe,” said Mason. “Wildlife: Respect it. Keep your distance. It looks like it’s docile, it looks like your Florida emblem, but it can be dangerous.”
