POLK COUNTY, Fla. – A woman canoeing on a central Florida lake was tragically killed by an alligator Tuesday afternoon, authorities confirmed. The attack occurred on Lake Kissimmee, near the mouth of Tiger Creek, south of Orlando.
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), the woman was with her husband at the time of the deadly encounter. While canoeing, she reportedly “went into the water” after encountering the alligator.
READ: Florida Alligator Harvest Program And Super Hunt Application Periods Open This Friday
A radio transmission from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, which assisted the FWC and marine units in the search, indicated the victim’s husband made an unsuccessful attempt to fight off the predator.
“Gator grabbed her out of the canoe,” an officer was heard saying. “He tried to fight the gator off. We’re at the last place he saw her. He left the paddle here where he last saw her at.”
The woman was later recovered from the water and pronounced dead.
Investigators have not yet released specific details regarding the circumstances of the attack or the alligator involved. A contracted nuisance alligator trapper was sent to the area following the incident.
ORIGINAL REPORT: A multi-agency response is currently underway at Lake Kissimmee State Park following a reported alligator attack this afternoon.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) confirmed they received a call at approximately 4:05 p.m. to assist the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) at the state park.
Initial reports indicate that two individuals were kayaking on Lake Kissimmee when one of them was attacked by an alligator.
READ: FWC Kills 3 Florida Bears Following Suspected Fatal Attack On Elderly Man In Collier County
Due to the lake’s location straddling the border between Polk and Osceola counties, it is believed that Osceola County authorities may have also received calls regarding the incident.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has deployed resources to the scene, including their helicopter, PCSO deputies on the ground, and their Marine Unit to assist in the response and any potential search and rescue efforts.
At this time, the condition of the kayaker is unknown, and further details regarding the circumstances of the attack are scarce. The FWC is expected to take the lead in the investigation.
This is a developing story.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.
