Overview
- A 31-year-old Orlando woman, Brittany Clark, was fatally attacked while wading in the Econlockhatchee River, and her boyfriend tried to pull her free before she was taken to a hospital, according to official reports about the June 28 incident.
- Contracted nuisance alligator trappers captured and euthanized two large alligators at the scene after the attack and collected samples from both animals for testing.
- Bite-mark comparisons had pointed to the larger animal and laboratory DNA testing in Gainesville confirmed that Clark’s DNA matched the 13-foot alligator removed from the river.
- The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said its investigation remains active and officials have released limited records so far while keeping site restrictions and public safety guidance in effect.
- Officials reiterated safety steps for people and pets near freshwater, described seasonal and environmental factors that can raise encounter risk, and a fundraiser was started to help Clark’s family with transporting her remains.