Fatal Alligator Attack Kills Orlando Woman in Florida's Seminole County

On June 28, 2026, 31‑year‑old Brittany Clark was attacked by a 13‑foot alligator while swimming in the Econlockhatchee River within the Little Big Econ State Forest in Seminole County, Florida. Her boyfriend, Chance Allison, attempted to rescue her but she later died from massive bleeding. DNA testing later confirmed that the alligator captured after the incident matched Clark’s DNA.

The fatal incident follows two other alligator attacks in central Florida within days: an 11‑year‑old boy lost his hand at Nelson Fish Camp in Marion County, and a 19‑year‑old was bitten while snorkeling in the Rainbow River. Experts attribute most attacks to risky human behavior, noting that drought‑driven habitat loss pushes alligators closer to populated areas. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reiterated safety guidelines, urging the public to keep a six‑meter distance from alligators, avoid swimming in known habitats, and report nuisance animals.

The FWC’s Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program continues to capture and euthanize problem alligators, emphasizing that serious injuries remain rare despite an increase in sightings due to the state's worst drought in 25 years.