Authorities said the juvenile was swimming in a preserve when the incident occurred
Credit: Hernando County Fire Rescue
NEED TO KNOW
- Authorities said a juvenile sustained non-life-threatening injuries after being bitten by an alligator while swimming in Florida’s Weeki Wachee Preserve on Sept. 7
- The juvenile was rescued and taken to a hospital
- Officials warned the public not to swim in areas where swimming is prohibited
Florida authorities said a juvenile sustained injuries following an encounter with an alligator in a preserve.
The incident occurred on Monday, Sept. 7, in the Weeki Wachee Preserve, the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office and Hernando County Fire Rescue confirmed in separate press releases.
Officials said the minor, who was not identified by name or age, was bitten by an alligator while swimming. They added the individual and several other minors became “isolated” on a sandbar and were rescued by airboat.
“The juvenile sustained puncture injuries to the arm and leg that were not considered life-threatening and was transported to Bayonet Point Hospital for further treatment,” the sheriff’s office said.
Authorities estimated that the alligator was approximately nine to 12 feet in length, adding that a licensed wildlife trapper was summoned to the area and placed traps for the animal.
The sheriff’s office said the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) responded to the incident and is handling the investigation regarding a swimming violation.
“For your safety, please use extreme caution around waterways and follow all posted rules and restrictions,” the sheriff’s office said. “Do not swim in areas where swimming is prohibited.”
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According to FWC, there were a total of 13 alligator bite incidents in Florida in 2025, including two fatal ones.
Located in central west Florida, the Weeki Wachee Preserve covers 11,206 acres, according to the Southwest Florida Water Management District. The preserve’s recreational opportunities include birding, bicycling, boating, fishing, hunting and picnicking.
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