Alligator Kills Man Fishing in Florida
The 12-foot alligator dragged the 71-year-old man into the water where he was fishing, according to officials.
An alligator killed a 71-year-old man in Florida while he was fishing near Orlando, according to state wildlife officials. The 3.7-meter (12-foot) alligator was "removed as a danger to the public" and "dispatched" by trappers following the incident.
The attack occurred when the alligator attacked the man on the shoreline and then dragged him into the water, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) said. This is the second fatal alligator attack in Florida this year. In June, a 31-year-old woman was killed near Orlando while swimming with friends.
Alligators are common in many parts of Florida, often found in lakes, rivers, and grassy areas. Between 1948 and 2025, there have been 32 fatal alligator attacks in the state out of 500 total incidents, according to the FWC. Officials advise the public to be aware of their surroundings and maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
"It looks like it's docile, it looks like your Florida emblem, but it can be dangerous," said one official, emphasizing the need for caution around the animals.