Alligator Attack Claims 71 Year Old Fisherman
PUBLISHED Oct 17, 2026, 11:51 AM ET
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On Friday evening, a seventy‑one‑year‑old fisherman was dragged into a pond in Winter Garden, Florida, and killed by a nearly twelve‑foot alligator. Authorities identified the victim as Steve Hamilton, who was fishing on the shore of Dr. Bradford Memorial Park when the reptile seized him. An eleven‑foot, eight‑inch alligator was later captured and removed from the scene. This incident marks the second fatal alligator attack in Florida this year, following the death of Brittany Clark in June while swimming in Little Big Econ State Forest. Alligator attacks remain rare, with most years recording around a dozen incidents, though 2022 saw a spike to twenty‑three. Florida wildlife officials urge residents to stay alert near water bodies, reminding that while alligators may appear docile, they can be dangerous. The state’s Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission continues to monitor and manage alligator populations to prevent
By Elena V. | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- 1948 — Florida began tracking alligator attacks on humans.
- 2022 — Twenty‑three alligator attacks recorded statewide.
- 2026-06 — Brittany Clark, thirty‑one, killed by alligator in Little Big Econ.
- On October 16 2026 Steve Hamilton, seventy‑one, died after alligator attack in Winter Garden.
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