Gator captured after attacking, biting off swimmer’s arm

Author: associated press
Published: Updated:

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) – Authorities have captured and killed an 8-foot, 9-inch alligator that bit off an Orlando woman’s arm while she was swimming.

Florida wildlife officials say Rachael D. Lilienthal, 37, was swimming in Wekiva River on Saturday when the gator attacked her, biting her twice. A kayaker struck the alligator with a paddle, causing the animal to release Lilienthal. Two kayakers brought her to the marina where deputies gave her first aid. She was taken to an Orlando-area hospital. Her condition is not known.

Wildlife officers captured the 300- to 350-pound male gator hours later, shortly after midnight Sunday and euthanized it.

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