A woman in Florida had a terrifying encounter with a 9-foot alligator while snorkeling with a friend at Alexander Springs Recreation Area. The incident was captured by a nearby photographer who took pictures of the immediate aftermath, including one showing the alligator lurking behind them.
Marissa Carr, the woman who was attacked, spoke to FOX 35 News about the incident. She expressed disbelief that an alligator had bitten her in the face during their outing on Sunday near Ocala. Carr recounted how she ripped off her mask and saw the alligator’s eyes emerging from the water. The 9-foot reptile had seemingly appeared out of nowhere.
Her friend, Shane, added that he heard a rush of water and then spotted the alligator. He witnessed the alligator with Carr’s head in its mouth. The attack happened so quickly that Carr didn’t initially realize she had been bitten.
Carr described the moment as not initially painful, but as she ran back to safety, the pain set in. She mentioned feeling severe pain in her forehead and neck. Disturbing photos showing blood on her forehead were shared, along with a warning to viewers.
The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission confirmed the incident and reported that they were able to locate and remove the alligator responsible for the attack. This marked the second alligator-related incident in the area within a week. Another man, aged 79, encountered an alligator while snorkeling on November 1. Although he was not bitten, he sustained a non-life-threatening injury.
Alexander Springs Recreation Area temporarily closed following the incidents but has since reopened. Carr believed that wearing a full-face snorkel mask instead of just goggles may have protected her from more serious injuries.
Despite the terrifying experience, Carr does not hold the alligator responsible and intends to continue snorkeling in the future. The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission advises people to maintain a safe distance from alligators, never feed them, keep pets away from bodies of water, and only swim in designated areas during daylight hours without pets. Concerned individuals can contact the FWC’s nuisance alligator hotline for assistance.
