Lab results connect DNA of woman fatally attacked to 13-foot alligator
By Brandon Hogan
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SEMINOLE COUNTY, Florida (WESH) — The DNA of Brittany Clark, an Orlando woman who died after being attacked by an alligator last month in Seminole County, has been matched to a 13-foot alligator found at the incident location, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Samples were collected from two alligators that were removed by trappers after the June 28 attack near the Barr Street Trailhead in the Little Big Econ State Forest, the FWC said in a statement Thursday. About a week ago, FWC announced it had also matched bite marks on Clark to one of those alligators.
“The FWC extends its deepest sympathies to the victim’s family and loved ones,” the statement reads, in part. “Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.”
Clark, 31, was in about 3 feet of water when wildlife officials say the gator bit her. She had just been hiking with her boyfriend and friends when they stopped to swim with their dogs.
According to an FWC report, an alligator grabbed Clark by the arm and began a “death roll.” Clark’s boyfriend went after the alligator, but it took him and Clark underwater before releasing her for a moment, then biting her other arm, the report states.
She died on the way to a hospital, officials said.
An online fundraiser has since been established to help transport Clark’s remains to California, where she’s from.
Those with concerns about alligators are encouraged to call the Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (392-4286).
FWC is still investigating.
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