A woman has survived a terrifying alligator attack while swimming in Florida waters, authorities reported.
The 27-year-old woman, whose identity has not been released, was swimming in the South Fork area of the Saint Lucie River with her boyfriend and their dog on July 23, 2025. According to the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, the woman was in waist-deep water when an alligator unexpectedly bit her hand and wrist, dragging her briefly underwater.
“The alligator bit her hand and wrist, momentarily pulling her under,” a sheriff’s office spokesperson shared. Fortunately, the alligator released the woman, allowing her boyfriend to rush her to a nearby boat ramp at Charlie Leighton Park.
Emergency crews responded quickly, with Martin County Fire Rescue arriving at the scene at approximately 7:51 p.m. The woman was treated for serious injuries at the scene and then flown to HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital in Fort Pierce as a precaution. Thankfully, her boyfriend and dog were unharmed.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was alerted to the incident and is working to capture the alligator, though it’s unclear whether the animal has been located or caught yet.
This incident highlights the dangers of swimming in areas where alligators may be present, especially in Florida’s waterways, which are home to large populations of these reptiles. It’s a reminder to exercise caution and stay alert when enjoying outdoor activities in alligator-prone regions.
