Florida Fisherman Killed in Alligator Attack, Second Fatal Incident This Year

A 71-year-old man has died after being attacked by a nearly 12-foot alligator in Florida, authorities reported Friday. The incident occurred along the shore of Lake Apopka in Winter Garden, near Orlando, around 5 p.m. The victim has been identified as Steven Hamilton.

Emergency crews responding to the scene were unable to immediately rescue Hamilton due to the presence of other alligators in the water, according to Winter Garden Fire Chief Jose Gainza. Hamilton's body was recovered by 7 p.m.

The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) extended its condolences to Hamilton's family. The alligator involved in the attack was subsequently captured and killed, Winter Garden Police Chief Michael Mason stated.

Mason noted that Lake Apopka is known to have a significant alligator population, and authorities were unaware of the specific alligator's proximity to the shore prior to the attack. "Always be aware of your surroundings. Always be safe," Mason advised. "Wildlife: Respect it. Keep your distance. It looks like it's docile, it looks like your Florida emblem, but it can be dangerous."

This marks the second fatal alligator attack in Florida this year. In June, 31-year-old Brittany Clark was killed by an alligator near her home in Oviedo. Data indicates that since 1948, 34 people have died as a result of alligator attacks in the state.

American alligators are native to Florida, though fatal encounters are relatively uncommon.