A child was bitten by a large alligator while swimming at the Weeki Wachee Preserve in Hernando County on Monday. The incident occurred when the victim and several other children became isolated on a sandbar before being rescued by Hernando County Fire Rescue. Medical reports indicate the child suffered non-life-threatening injuries to their arm and leg, requiring transport to Bayonet Point Hospital for treatment. A licensed Florida wildlife trapper was dispatched to the scene where they set traps in an effort to capture the alligator. While officials have not yet confirmed the victim’s name or exact age, they are urging residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution near waterways. The sheriff’s office has also reminded everyone to obey all posted rules and never enter areas where swimming is prohibited.
Key Points:
- A child was bitten by an estimated 9- to-12-foot alligator while swimming at the Weeki Wachee Preserve in Hernando County.
- The victim and several other children became isolated on a sandbar before being rescued by Hernando County Fire Rescue.
- The child suffered non-life-threatening injuries to their arm and leg and was rushed to Bayonet Point Hospital.
