Hiker Mauled in Collier County as Florida Records Third Alligator Attack of 2025

Screams shattered the quiet trails of Collier County when a hiker was suddenly dragged into the water by a lunging alligator — the shocking encounter marking Florida’s third gator attack of 2025. Witnesses say the massive reptile struck without warning, leaving the victim fighting for survival in a terrifying struggle that has once again put Florida’s growing alligator problem in the spotlight.

According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), the attack happened late Saturday afternoon along a popular hiking path near the Big Cypress Preserve. The victim, identified as Mark Reynolds, 38, of Naples, had been walking alone when he reportedly stopped near a freshwater pond to rest. That’s when the alligator, estimated at over 9 feet long, lunged from the water’s edge and clamped onto his leg, pulling him into the murky shallows.

Other hikers nearby heard the commotion and rushed to help. “We heard this blood-curdling scream and turned to see him thrashing in the water,” said Angela Cortez, who witnessed the attack. “The gator had him, and we honestly thought he was going to be dragged under completely.”

Bystanders threw rocks and sticks, shouting to distract the animal. After a tense struggle lasting nearly a minute, the alligator released Reynolds, who managed to crawl back onto the trail with severe wounds to his leg and torso. Paramedics arrived within minutes after frantic 911 calls, airlifting him to NCH Baker Hospital in Naples. Doctors later confirmed that while Reynolds suffered deep lacerations and broken bones, he is expected to survive after undergoing emergency surgery.

FWC officers and a licensed trapper were dispatched to the area and captured the alligator hours later. Officials confirmed it would be euthanized, following standard protocol for animals that attack humans. “Once an alligator shows this level of aggression, it poses a clear threat to public safety,” said FWC spokesperson John Matthews.

The Collier County incident is the third confirmed alligator attack in Florida since January, an unusually high number for such a short span of time. In late February, a woman walking her dog in Lee County was bitten while trying to shield her pet from an alligator near a canal. Earlier in January, a swimmer in Brevard County was seriously injured after being attacked in a retention pond.

Wildlife experts say the spike may be linked to warmer winter temperatures, which have kept alligators more active than usual. “Typically, colder months slow down gator activity,” explained Dr. Emily Harrington, a herpetologist at the University of Florida. “But with unseasonably warm weather this year, they’re moving around, feeding, and defending territory earlier than expected.”

For locals and tourists alike, the danger is sobering. Collier County is home to sprawling wetlands and countless freshwater lakes where alligators thrive. Although attacks remain rare compared to the state’s overall gator population — estimated at over 1.3 million — the recent string of incidents has rattled communities and raised questions about whether humans are becoming too complacent in gator territory.

Reynolds’ family expressed shock at the ordeal, saying he was an experienced hiker familiar with Florida wildlife. “Mark respects nature, but he never thought something like this would happen on a routine walk,” said his sister, Caroline Reynolds. “We’re grateful he’s alive, but this has changed our perspective on how dangerous these trails can be.”

The attack has reignited debate about how Florida should balance its thriving wildlife population with the safety of its residents. Some locals are calling for increased patrols around popular parks and waterways, while others argue that education, not eradication, is the key. “We live in alligator country,” said Collier County Commissioner David Lopez. “The animals aren’t going anywhere. People need to understand the risks and act accordingly.”

FWC advises hikers to stay at least 30 feet away from the edge of any body of water, never feed alligators, and keep pets on short leashes when near canals or ponds. Officials stress that feeding gators is particularly dangerous, as it makes them associate humans with food — a behavior that often leads to attacks.

Despite the precautions, fear is spreading among outdoor enthusiasts. Some trail-goers in Collier County say they will avoid certain areas until they feel safer. “I’ve hiked here for years, but after seeing someone almost killed, it’s hard to come back without that image in your mind,” Cortez admitted.

As Reynolds recovers in the hospital, he has become an unwilling symbol of Florida’s ongoing struggle with its most iconic predator. His story has been shared widely online, sparking both sympathy and heated discussion. “This is Florida — gators have always been here,” one social media user wrote. “But people forget they’re wild animals, not background scenery.”

Experts warn that with spring and summer approaching, encounters are likely to increase. Mating season for alligators begins in April, a time when the animals become more territorial and aggressive. “We’re heading into the riskiest months of the year,” Dr. Harrington said. “People need to be extra cautious. The recent incidents may not be a coincidence — they could be a sign of what’s ahead.”

For now, the Collier County community is left shaken but grateful the outcome wasn’t worse. Reynolds remains in stable condition, expected to spend weeks in recovery and rehabilitation. Meanwhile, state officials continue monitoring gator populations and reinforcing safety measures to prevent another near-fatal encounter.

But the terrifying attack is a reminder that in Florida, danger can be lurking just beneath the water’s surface. For hikers, swimmers, and dog walkers, the lesson is clear: in gator country, one moment of inattention can turn a peaceful outing into a fight for survival.