Florida Tourist Sues Wildlife Attraction After Alligator Bite During ‘Free Gator Encounter’, Seeks USD 50,000 in Damages
A Florida tourist has filed a lawsuit against a popular wildlife attraction after allegedly suffering facial injuries during a complimentary alligator encounter, reigniting debate over visitor safety at animal tourism experiences.
A Florida tourist has filed a lawsuit against a popular wildlife attraction after allegedly suffering facial injuries during a complimentary alligator encounter, reigniting debate over visitor safety at animal tourism experiences.
According to court documents, Broward County resident Edil Kasenov filed a civil lawsuit on May 20, 2026, against Airboat Rides at Midway, a well-known attraction in Christmas, Florida. The lawsuit seeks more than USD 50,000 (approximately INR 47.47 lakh) in damages and alleges negligence on the part of the company, which is operated by DCML Enterprises, LLC.
Tourist Claims He Was Bitten During Alligator Encounter
The incident reportedly occurred on June 9, 2025, after an airboat tour along the St. Johns River. Airboat Rides at Midway offers visitors a complimentary alligator encounter, allowing guests to hold a live alligator and pose for photographs. Alligator 'Attack' in US: Body Found Next to Giant Alligator in Florida's Pinellas County, Probe Underway (See Pic and Video).
In his complaint, Kasenov alleges that he was "bitten in the face" by an alligator during the encounter. The lawsuit argues that permitting visitors to handle the reptile created a dangerous condition and that the attraction failed to implement adequate safety measures.
Florida Tourist Sues Wildlife Attraction After Alligator Bite
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The filing further claims there were no warning signs or devices alerting guests to the potential risks posed by the animal. It also alleges that the alligator was not properly restrained and that employees were inadequately trained and supervised during the activity. Alligator Caught in New Jersey Video: Reptile Roaming in the Community For Two Weeks Captured and Relocated to Cape May Zoo (Watch Video).
Lawsuit Cites Lasting Physical and Emotional Harm
According to the complaint, Kasenov suffered serious bodily injuries that resulted in physical impairment, disfigurement, emotional distress, loss of income and medical expenses. He claims the effects of the incident may be permanent and has requested a jury trial.
The lawsuit seeks compensation for damages associated with his injuries and ongoing recovery.
Wildlife Attraction Disputes Allegations
Airboat Rides at Midway has strongly contested the claims, offering a different account of the incident. According to statements cited by local media, staff members provide clear instructions to visitors on how to safely hold the alligator and specifically warn guests not to place their faces near the animal.
The company alleges that Kasenov ignored those instructions while posing for a photograph. Representatives claim the baby alligator did not bite him but instead became startled and swung its head, causing minor scratches to his cheek.
The attraction also stated that the alligator's mouth was secured with a safety band designed to prevent bites and that Kasenov was treated with ointment before leaving the premises.
Safety Measures Under Scrutiny
Information on the attraction's website notes that alligators used during encounters are fitted with a band around their mouths to minimise the risk of bites. Guests are also warned not to place their hands or faces near the animal's head.
The alligator encounter is optional and offered after the airboat tour experience.
Reports also indicate that Kasenov referenced being "bitten by an alligator" in a social media post shared shortly after the incident, though the post does not directly confirm the allegations outlined in the lawsuit.
The case is currently pending in Orange County Circuit Court, where a jury may ultimately determine whether the attraction's safety protocols were sufficient and whether negligence played a role in the incident.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 07, 2026 10:36 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
