Alligator Kills Woman During Canoe Trip in Florida: Husband Tries to Save Her but Failed

A Florida woman has died after being attacked by an alligator while canoeing with her husband, who tried to save her when the reptile suddenly attacked, according to reports ABC News.

Photo: Ben Graham | Dreamstime.com

On the afternoon of May 5, a couple was canoeing along the mouth of Tiger Creek near Lake Kissimmee in Polk County. As their boat surfaced in about 75 inches of water, a large alligator appeared directly beneath them, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

The reptile thrashed beneath them and capsized the canoe, sending both spouses into the water. Cynthia Diekema, 61, of Polk County, fell on top of the alligator, the commission said.

The reptile grabbed her, although the husband tried to save his wife. The victim's body was soon discovered.

The commission is investigating. The following day, an alligator 3,45 meters long was caught, which matched the description of the reptile involved in the incident. On Wednesday, May 7, another alligator about 3-3,3 meters long was caught.

Fatal attacks by the reptiles are "extremely rare," said Roger Young, the commission's executive director, but the tragedy "serves as a grim reminder" of the dangers to the region's wildlife.

To reduce the risk of such attacks, the commission urges people to keep pets away from the water and to swim only in specially designated areas – exclusively during the day.

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