Florida fisherman, 71, killed by nearly 12-foot alligator as rescuers face more gators

A 71-year-old man was killed Friday by a nearly 12-foot alligator in the second fatal attack in Florida this year, police said.

Steven Hamilton was fishing along the shore of Lake Apopka in Winter Garden near Orlando, when he was attacked around 5 p.m., the Winter Garden Police Department said.

Emergency crews attempted to rescue Hamilton, but weren’t able to because other alligators were also in the water, Winter Garden Fire Chief Jose Gainza told FOX 35.

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His body was recovered by 7 p.m.

“The FWC extends its deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of the victim during this difficult time,” the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission said.

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The alligator was trapped and killed, Winter Garden Police Chief Michael Mason said.

Mason said the lake “has tons of alligators in it” and authorities weren’t aware before the attack that one was near the shore.

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“Always be aware of your surroundings. Always be safe,” he said. “Wildlife: Respect it. Keep your distance. It looks like it’s docile, it looks like your Florida emblem, but it can be dangerous.”

American alligators can be found all over Florida, although attacks are rare.

In June, a 31-year-old woman named Brittany Clark was killed by an alligator near her home in Oviedo.

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And in May of last year, 61-year-old Cynthia Diekema was killed after an alligator tipped her out of her canoe.

Including Hamilton, since 1948, 34 people have been killed by alligators, according to state data.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.