Fisherman Killed by 12-Foot Alligator in Florida

A 71-year-old Florida man was fatally attacked by a 12-foot alligator while fishing on the shoreline of Lake Apopka on Friday afternoon. The victim has been identified as Steven Hamilton of Winter Garden by the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Emergency crews responded to the scene around 5 p.m. after Hamilton was mauled by the animal. His body was recovered at 7 p.m.

Winter Garden Fire Chief Jose Gainza stated that the presence of other active alligators in the water complicated rescue efforts. The alligator involved in the attack was captured and killed by FWC trappers. Winter Garden Police Captain Michael Mason confirmed a loud noise heard by reporters was the alligator being "removed as a danger to the public."

Lake Apopka is known to have one of the largest populations of American alligators in Central Florida.