A 31-year-old woman has died after a horrific alligator attack while swimming with her boyfriend and best friend in a river at Florida’s Little Big Econ State Forest. Authorities say the rare but deadly encounter occurred as the group entered shallow water to cool off, highlighting the dangers of swimming in areas known to be home to alligators.
The Attack Happened While the Group Was Cooling Off
The incident took place around 1:30 p.m. near the Barr Street Trailhead along the Econlockhatchee River, about 20 miles northeast of Orlando. The three hikers had entered the shallow water to escape the heat when an alligator suddenly attacked the woman.
The predator inflicted catastrophic injuries before the victim’s boyfriend and friend rushed into the water in an attempt to pull her to safety.
Disturbing 911 Call Captured the Desperate Rescue
Audio from the emergency call revealed the frantic efforts to save the woman. Her boyfriend told dispatchers he was trying to free her arms from the alligator’s jaws while begging emergency responders to arrive quickly.
During the call, he reported that both of her arms had been severed. The victim was pulled from the river, but her injuries were devastating.
Victim Died Before Reaching the Hospital
Emergency crews responded rapidly and transported the Orlando woman to a nearby hospital. Sadly, she died before arriving due to the severity of her injuries.
Authorities have not yet publicly released her identity as they continue notifying family members.
Wildlife Officials Are Investigating the Attack
Following the incident, wildlife officers located two large alligators measuring approximately 12 and 13 feet in length near the scene. DNA testing is being conducted to determine which animal was responsible.
The Barr Street Trailhead and surrounding area have been closed while investigators and wildlife officials continue their work.
Third Alligator Attack Reported in Central Florida in One Week
The fatal attack marks the third reported alligator encounter in central Florida within a week. Earlier incidents included an attack at Rainbow River and another in which a child suffered injuries while fishing.
Although serious alligator attacks remain uncommon, wildlife officials remind residents and visitors that alligators become more active and territorial during their mating season, which typically runs from April through June.
How to Stay Safe Around Alligators
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission advises people to avoid swimming in natural bodies of water where alligators are known to live, especially during dawn, dusk, or the breeding season.
Visitors should keep a safe distance from alligators, never feed them, and remain alert near rivers, lakes, and marshes, as attacks, while rare, can happen unexpectedly.
