A crocodile attacked a group of kayakers in Florida, almost severing a woman’s arm.
Christian Salvador, 64, was paddling with her husband among around 20 others in Tiger Creek when, suddenly, she felt an impact on her paddle, as noted in a report from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Salvador’s kayak capsized, and she screamed, “I have a crocodile in my arm!” as she struggled. Her husband tried to pull her back onto the overturned kayak, but one of her arms remained trapped underwater as an 8-foot female alligator clamped down around her elbows.
Another kayaker bravely attempted a rescue, only to be bitten by the alligator, which tried to drag him under as well.
The man later recounted that he “stuck [his] fingers deep inside [the] gator’s eyes,” which allowed him to escape, according to the report.
Newly released images from the incident in early March reveal the extent of Salvador’s injuries; her elbows and arms were severely damaged and nearly severed.
Although she was saved from losing her arm, doctors indicated that she would need reconstructive surgery and physical therapy for recovery.
Reptile expert Kim Titterton explained to the outlet that the aggressive behavior displayed by the alligator was likely a protective response to a perceived threat to its territory.
She likened it to someone sitting in their backyard and feeling the need to protect their space when a group of visitors unexpectedly walks through.
The report further detailed the frightening event.
