A 71-year-old man was fatally killed by a 12-foot alligator while fishing on the Florida shoreline Friday afternoon.
The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission identified the victim as Steven Hamilton of Winter Garden, according to FOX35.
Emergency crews rushed to the scene around 5 p.m. after Hamilton was mauled by the beast while on the shores of Lake Apopka, 15 miles northwest of Orlando.
Other active alligators were in the water, making it difficult to rescue Hamilton, whose body was found at 7 p.m., Winter Garden Fire Chief Jose Gainza told the outlet.
The 11.8-foot alligator was captured and killed by FWC trappers.
“We are jointly investigating with FWC, the information is limited and obviously we can share it,” Mason said.
Mason said the police department was not alerted to any alligator sightings before the attack, but the reptiles are common in the waters.
“Lake Apopka is home to tons of alligators,” Mason said.
Mason also issued a warning to anyone else considering going fishing in the area.
“Always be aware of your surroundings. Always be safe. Local wildlife is respected, keep your distance. It looks like it is docile…but it can be dangerous,” the captain said.
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