Florida, USA — Florida wildlife authorities have released a disturbing new report detailing the tragic alligator attack that led to the death of a 61-year-old Michigan woman in May.
Fatal Alligator Attack Near Lake Kissimmee State Park
Cynthia Diekema was canoeing with her husband near Lake Kissimmee State Park when they unknowingly came too close to an 11-foot, 4-inch alligator lurking beneath the water’s surface.
According to a report from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), the alligator suddenly thrashed under the canoe, sending the pair into the water.
“The victim was immediately bitten on the torso, and efforts by her husband to assist her were unsuccessful,” the report states. “The alligator performed a death roll and swam away with the victim.”
Trappers from the FWC later captured the alligator responsible for the attack.
GatorWise Campaign Aims to Increase Awareness
Following the tragic incident, the FWC has launched a new partnership with GatorWise, a public awareness campaign designed to help people better understand alligator behavior and take precautions to minimize conflicts.
Matthew Nichols, FWC’s alligator management program coordinator, explained, “Florida has seen tremendous population growth in recent years, with many people living or recreating near water. Because alligators can be found in nearly any water in Florida, it’s safest to always assume they’re present.”
GatorWise will offer consistent, science-based advice for living in proximity to alligators. The campaign stresses that there are an estimated 1.3 million alligators in Florida and encourages public education on how to safely navigate areas where alligators are commonly found.
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Florida’s Alligator Bite Statistics
The FWC’s 2025 statistics indicate two “major” alligator bites by May, one of which resulted in a fatality. No minor bites were reported this year.
Last year, Florida saw a total of 11 bites (9 major and 2 minor) with no fatalities. However, in 2023, there were 23 bites in total, including 2 fatalities.
GatorWise Safety Tips
The GatorWise website offers essential guidelines for safely coexisting with alligators:
- Always assume alligators are present when near water.
- Never feed alligators or dispose of fish or food scraps in the water.
- Avoid approaching or attempting to pick up alligators.
- Keep pets on-leash and away from the water’s edge.
“Educating people about alligators while increasing respect for these animals and their natural behaviors will help people and alligators coexist,” the GatorWise website reads.
What Are Your Thoughts on the “GatorWise” Initiative?
How do you think this initiative can help prevent future attacks? Share your thoughts with us and stay informed through the latest updates at ridgecrestpact.org.
