Child Attacked by Alligator While Swimming in Restricted Florida Waters

A child is recovering from injuries sustained in an alligator attack in Florida. Here is a look at the details of this attack and how common these types of assaults are.

Child Recovering After Alligator Attack in Florida

Officials in Florida confirmed that a child suffered non-fatal injuries after being attacked by an alligator at Weeki Wachee Preserve on Labor Day. According to the Hernando County Sheriff's Office, the alligator punctured the child's arm and leg. The victim was transported to Bayonet Point Hospital for treatment.

Located about 60 miles to the northwest of Tampa in the community of Spring Hill, the Weeki Wachee Preserve is restricted waters, meaning that swimming is prohibited. A group of children had to be rescued by Hernando County Fire Rescue after becoming stranded on a sandbar in the preserve. According to officials, the alligator was captured by traps from a licensed Florida wildlife trapper. The gator was estimated to be between 9 and 12 feet long.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is now investigating the violation.  The sheriff's office released a statement warning, “For your safety, please use extreme caution around waterways and follow all posted rules and restrictions. Do not swim in areas where swimming is prohibited."

Several habitats dot the landscape of the Weeki Wachee Preserve, including marshes, swamps, and river frontage. Although visitors are allowed to fish and hike in the preserve, swimming is strictly prohibited in the lakes.