Child treated after alligator bite in Weeki Wachee
By The BriefBrief
A child was hospitalized after being bitten by an alligator while swimming at Weeki Wachee Preserve, the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office said. The Sept. 7 attack left puncture wounds to an arm and leg; first responders reported the injuries were not life-threatening and transported the child to Bayonet Point Hospital. Wildlife officials set traps after estimating the alligator at 9 to 12 feet.
WHO:Hernando County Sheriff’s Office; Hernando County Fire Rescue; Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission; a child victim; a licensed Florida wildlife trapper
WHAT:A child was bitten by an estimated 9-to-12-foot alligator while swimming; the child received medical treatment and wildlife officials responded with trapping.
WHEN:Sep 7, 2026
WHERE:Weeki Wachee Preserve, Hernando County, Florida
WHY:The incident occurred during swimming at the preserve, and authorities are investigating swimming violations.
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