Obviously more training is necessary for both the trainer and the alligator.
A 31-year-old woman was hospitalized after an alligator she’s worked with for 3 1/2 years bit her hand and pulled her into the water at a traveling reptile show called ‘Scales and Tails – Utah.’
The trainer said she understood the risks working with “Darth Gator” and those fears came to light during a training/feeding session when the gator latched onto her hand and pulled her into the water tank.
Bystander Donnie Wiseman jumped into action and the tank calling for additional help as the gator had a death grip on the trainer. Another bystander helped get the gator to release the trainer while his wife – a trained medical professional – helped by administering first aid until EMS arrived.
The trainer is expected to make a full recovery.
The kids that witnessed the attack may need some light therapy… or ice cream.
[YouTube: KSL News]
