A 71-year-old man fishing at a Florida pond was killed by a nearly 12-foot alligator on Friday evening, marking the second fatal alligator attack in the state this year. Steven Hamilton of Winter Garden was standing on the shoreline of Lake Apopka at Dr. Bradford Memorial Park when the reptile attacked around 5 p.m., according to the Winter Garden Police Department. His body was recovered approximately two hours later.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) confirmed the incident and identified the victim. An 11-foot, 8-inch alligator was captured and removed from the scene. Authorities noted the presence of other active alligators in the water complicated rescue efforts.
Alligator attacks in Florida remain rare, despite the state’s large alligator population. The FWC reports that while hundreds of thousands of alligators inhabit Florida, attacks typically number around a dozen annually. In 2023, there were 13 attacks, including two fatalities. Since 1948, Florida has recorded 34 fatal alligator attacks.
The most recent prior fatality occurred in June, when a 31-year-old woman was killed by a 13-foot alligator near her home in Oviedo. Her death prompted a Republican U.S. Representative to introduce a resolution calling for a federal review of alligator protections.
Winter Garden Police Capt. Michael Mason stated that authorities were not alerted in advance of the attack, noting that the lake is known for its alligator activity. The park where the incident occurred features a crossing called Gator Bridge, reflecting the area’s frequent wildlife encounters.
The FWC and local police have launched a joint investigation into the incident. Officials continue to urge residents and visitors to maintain distance from wildlife and remain aware of their surroundings when near waterways.