WINTER GARDEN, Fla. – A man was killed by a nearly 12-foot-long alligator at a park in Winter Garden on Friday evening, according to the fire department.
Fire Chief Jose Gainza told News 6 the incident happened at Dr. Bradford Memorial Park.
Gainza explained that the man was fishing on the shoreline and was pulled in. He died during the incident, though first responders were able to recover the body.
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Per the fire chief, the pond was “fully active” with several alligators, so rescuers initially couldn’t go into the water. The victim — later identified as Steven Hamilton, 71 — was reportedly in the water for an hour.
Officials said the alligator was “dispatched” by agents with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
“The FWC extends its deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of the victim during this difficult time,” a spokesperson said.
No additional information has been provided at this time.
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