Florida Fisherman, 71, Dragged Into Water by Nearly 12-Foot Alligator Moments After Posing With His Catch

A Florida fisherman was posing for a photograph with a fish he had just caught when a massive alligator suddenly seized his leg and dragged him into the water. The fatal attack unfolded at a park where he had reportedly spent years fishing.

Steven Hamilton, 71, was attacked on October 16 at Dr. Bradford Memorial Park in Winter Garden, west of Orlando. He was a regular visitor to the park, where ponds connect to Lake Apopka, an area known for its large alligator population.

According to witness accounts included in medical examiner records, Hamilton had caught a bass and was holding it up for a photograph when the alligator emerged from the water. The animal grabbed his leg and pulled him beneath the surface.

Witnesses reportedly watched as the alligator resurfaced while still holding Hamilton. The animal submerged him again before wildlife trappers were able to subdue it and free him. Hamilton was later pronounced dead.

An autopsy report described severe injuries to his leg, including blunt-force trauma and a suspected alligator bite. The medical examiner ruled his death accidental.

The alligator believed to have been responsible measured approximately 11 feet, 8 inches long. A contracted nuisance-alligator trapper captured and killed the animal following the incident.

Hamilton’s death shocked people who regularly visited the park. Fellow fishermen remembered him as a familiar face who enjoyed spending time by the water. Some described him as friendly and generous, making the news especially difficult for the local community.

Authorities have urged people visiting lakes and ponds to remain alert, keep their distance from alligators and avoid approaching wildlife, even when the animals appear calm.

The fatal encounter marks Florida’s second reported deadly alligator attack of 2026. Investigators with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Winter Garden Police Department continue to examine the circumstances surrounding Hamilton’s death.

For a man who reportedly visited the park to fish almost daily, an ordinary afternoon with his latest catch ended in tragedy.

Source: DAILYMAIL