safety
Woman killed by alligator while swimming in Florida river as wildlife officials warn after string of attacks
By Steven Yablonski at CBS4 Miami
· June 30, 2026
· 3 min read
Officials with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission are urging people to be aware of their surroundings after a series of alligator attacks in Florida left one person dead and two others injured, including a minor.The first alligator attack occurred in the Rainbow River in Marion Co
Key takeaway According to the Marion County Sheriff's Office, the river was closed on June 21 after deputies said a snorkeler was bitten.
Why this matters in The Miami
The recent string of alligator attacks in Florida, including a fatal incident in Seminole County, serves as a stark reminder for Miami residents to be cautious when engaging in outdoor activities near bodies of water. As the city is surrounded by areas prone to alligator sightings, such as the Everglades, it's crucial for locals to be aware of their surroundings, especially during alligator mating season. Miami-Dade County's proximity to the Everglades National Park, a known habitat for alligators, increases the risk of encounters with these wild animals. Residents and visitors alike should exercise extreme caution when swimming, fishing, or hiking in areas near freshwater sources, and report any alligator sightings to the authorities immediately. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's warnings should be taken seriously, and Miami's outdoor enthusiasts should remain vigilant to avoid similar tragedies in their own community.
About this story
Original reporting by CBS4 Miami . The Miami surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit CBS4 Miami . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: June 30, 2026 ·
Source: CBS4 Miami ·
Reading time: 3 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Officials with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission are urging people to be aware of their surroundings after a series of alligator attacks in Florida left one person dead and two others injured, including a minor.The first alligator attack occurred in the Rainbow River in Marion Co
When was this published? This article was first published on June 30, 2026 by CBS4 Miami and curated for The Miami readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Steven Yablonski at CBS4 Miami. To learn more about how The Miami selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The Miami, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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