Canoeing Woman Killed by Alligator in Florida Attack

Kissimmee, Florida – A woman was killed by an alligator during a canoeing trip on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at the mouth of Tiger Creek near Lake Kissimmee in Polk County, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

The victim, identified as 61-year-old Cynthia Diekema from Polk County, was canoeing with her husband when their boat drifted over an alligator in approximately 2 1/2 feet of water. The alligator reacted by thrashing violently, tipping the canoe and throwing both occupants into the water.

Diekema ended up on top of the alligator, where she was bitten. Her husband attempted to save her during the attack, officials stated. Emergency responders later recovered her body from the water.

An investigation into the incident is currently underway. An alligator matching the description of the one involved, measuring 11 feet 4 inches, was recovered Tuesday night. Another alligator estimated to be between 10 and 11 feet long was captured on Wednesday morning.

Roger Young, executive director of the FWC, expressed condolences regarding Diekema’s death, calling it a “devastating loss.” He noted that while deadly alligator attacks are “extremely rare,” this tragedy serves as a reminder of the power of wildlife in the region.

The FWC urged the public to take precautions to reduce the risk of alligator encounters. They recommend keeping pets away from water and swimming only in designated areas during daylight hours.

From 1948 to 2024, Florida has recorded 487 unprovoked alligator bites on humans, with 27 resulting in fatalities.