SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL – A 31-year-old Orlando woman tragically lost her life after being attacked by an alligator while wading in the Econlockhatchee River within the Little Big Econ State Forest.
The Attack
The victim, identified by authorities as Brittany Clark, was hiking with her boyfriend and best friend before entering the three-foot-deep river to cool off from the heat.
Officials stated that a large alligator ambushed Clark, inflicting severe injuries to both of her arms. Her boyfriend immediately contacted emergency services, but Clark succumbed to her injuries before rescue crews could transport her to a nearby hospital.
Trappers Investigate the Area
Following the incident, Seminole County sheriff’s deputies and a professional alligator trapper closed off the area near the Barr Street Trailhead.
Trappers successfully harvested two large alligators near the scene—one measuring 13 feet and the other 12 feet long. DNA samples from both reptiles have been sent to a state laboratory to determine which animal was responsible for the fatal attack.
Rising Wildlife Encounters
Local authorities noted that this tragedy marks Central Florida’s third alligator encounter within a seven-day span. According to data from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), alligator bites in the state have historically shown an upward trend as human development increases near natural habitats.
Wildlife experts also point out that ongoing regional drought conditions have caused local water levels to drop significantly. Lower water levels often force wildlife and humans into closer proximity, particularly during hot summer days when residents seek out natural waterways to cool down.
Officials urge hikers and visitors to exercise extreme caution and avoid entering unmonitored bodies of water.
