CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla — A 14-year-old boy attacked by an alligator while walking near a pond in Charlotte County.
Charlotte County Fire and EMS say they were alerted around 12:30 on Tuesday of an alligator attack at a pond in Placida.
“The boy and his mother were here with their two dogs and they were just enjoying the weather with their two dogs and playing near the shoreline there, ” said Senior Officer Adam Brown.
Florida Fish and Wildlife say the nearly 10-foot alligator bit the teen on his leg and hand.
He has since been transported to Tampa General Hospital.
FWC called trappers in to catch the gator.
“The alligator will be removed and taken to an alligator farm in Glades County, ” said Senior Officer Adam Brown.
Alligators are found in all 67 Florida counties.
“If you’re anywhere near any body of water in the state of Florida there’s probably going to be an alligator nearby, ” said Senior Officer Adam Brown.
FWC says alligator and human interactions have become more frequent and it is best to shy away from areas where gators may be lurking.
“It is very unfortunate for the young boy, but we all know not to go near the water, ” said Peter Ide.
Neighbor Peter Ide encourages people to be more vigilant.
“Keep pets away, keep humans away, it is their territory, ” said Ide.
Florida Fish and wildlife also recommend,
“We don’t want anyone to feed or entice or molest an alligator in any way, we don’t want to create a conflict where there is no conflict there, ” said Adam Brown.
The teen suffered an open fracture to the leg, Charlotte county fire and ems say his injuries do not seem to be life-threatening.
