Law enforcement officials in Orlando, Florida, on the scene of the tragic alligator attack on a 2-year-old boy have made a sad announcement. According to Orange County Sheriff Jerry Demings, the attack is being considered not survivable because of the amount of time that has elapsed. The child was attacked last night around 9:30 p.m. at the Seven Seas Lagoon at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
A family vacationing from Nebraska, that included a mother, father and three children were relaxing and wading in the water at the lake’s edge. As the boy was playing in the water an alligator attacked the child. His father wrestled with the alligator and attempted to free his son from its jaws but was unsuccessful. A lifeguard was alerted and the beach area was evacuated and guests were told to go to their room. According to Demings, the alligator was 4 to 7 feet long.
Florida Fish and Wildlife officials have stated that five alligators have been caught since the attack. Efforts have now changed from a rescue to a search and recovery for any remains or evidence as officials continue to investigate.
According to FFWS, Disney World is very proactive in managing any wildlife issues that may be dangerous to the public. There is a dedicated staff that works along with FFWS to mitigate any hazards. According to authorities, there has never been an alligator attack at the world-renowned theme park.
The name of the family and victim have not been released to media. According to Demings, attention is being focused on the family’s sense of comfort and closure at this difficult time.
The property covers 27,258 acres (42.6 square miles) and has 27 themed resort hotels, nine non–Disney hotels, four theme parks, two water parks, several golf courses, a camping resort and other entertainment venues.
@4 p.m. ET: Police recovered remains of two-year-old Lane Graves and have been turned over to Orange County Florida coroner. The parent’s names are Matt and Melissa Graves of Elkhorn, Nebraska. The child’s body was completely intact according to Orange County Sheriff Jerry Demings. He also said the family “appreciates the prayers.”
