A woman was fatally attacked by an alligator while in a small boat near Tiger Creek in Lake Kissimmee, Florida, around 4 p.m., with her body found shortly after she was last seen entering the water.

The tragic incident marks a rare occurrence of serious injuries from alligator attacks in Florida, where such events are uncommon. While the investigation continues, authorities have dispatched a trapper to the area to address potential threats, highlighting ongoing concerns regarding the safety of recreational activities in alligator-infested waters.

The attack occurred when the woman was boating near the mouth of Tiger Creek, a location known to be home to alligators. Reports indicate that she went into the water but was not seen again until her body was discovered nearby. The circumstances leading to her entering the water are currently unclear, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is conducting an investigation into the matter.

Eyewitness accounts indicate that there was another individual in the boat at the time of the incident. This person was not reported injured and may provide further insight into the sequence of events that occurred prior to the attack. Authorities have not disclosed the identity of either individual, pending notification of next of kin.

There is some confusion regarding the type of watercraft involved in the attack. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office described the vessel as a kayak, while the FWC believes it was a canoe. This discrepancy is under review as investigators gather evidence and testimonies from both the survivor and any witnesses present.

Upon receiving reports of the attack, a contracted nuisance alligator trapper was dispatched to the area to assess the situation. This action is part of Florida's broader strategy to manage alligator populations, particularly in areas heavily frequented by people. The program led by the FWC aims to remove alligators that pose a potential risk to public safety and those that have become a nuisance due to their proximity to homes and recreational areas.

Officials have stated that serious injuries resulting from alligator attacks are rare in Florida, although they do occur from time to time. The last similar fatality reported took place in 2021, underscoring the infrequency of such incidents. While the state has a resident alligator population, the encounters between humans and these reptiles do not often lead to serious consequences, according to safety assessments formulated by wildlife officials.

Despite the rarity of fatal attacks, authorities continue to emphasize the importance of exercising caution when interacting with Florida’s natural waterways, which are often inhabited by alligators. The FWC administers educational programs aimed at informing the public about safety measures when engaging in activities like boating, swimming, and fishing in areas known for alligator presence.

As the investigation proceeds, local residents and recreational users of Lake Kissimmee have expressed concern regarding the safety of their activities. Further updates from the FWC regarding the condition of the alligator involved in this latest attack are anticipated, along with any potential changes to local wildlife management protocols in light of the incident.