Overview

• The fatal attack occurred Tuesday afternoon near the mouth of Tiger Creek on Lake Kissimmee, Florida, as the couple canoed in shallow water.
• The alligator thrashed after being inadvertently disturbed, tipping the canoe and throwing Cynthia Diekema and her husband into the water.
• Diekema, who fell on top of the alligator, was bitten and killed despite her husband’s attempts to fight off the animal.
• Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) identified the incident as a non-predatory, defensive reaction and captured two large alligators matching the description.
• Officials emphasize that fatal alligator attacks are extremely rare and have issued renewed safety guidance for lake visitors during the active spring mating season.