local
Bite marks used to identify alligator that fatally attacked woman swimming in Florida river
By Amanda Alvarado at WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate)
· July 7, 2026
· 2 min read
SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. (Gray News) — Bite marks were used to identify the 12-foot alligator that fatally attacked a 31-year-old woman who was swimming in a Florida river, according to the medical examiner.The bite marks on Brittany Clark matched one of two alligators the Florida Fish and Wildlife ...
Key takeaway The bite marks on Brittany Clark matched one of two alligators the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission killed after the attack June 28, WESH reported.
Why this matters in The Nashville
While this tragic incident occurred in Florida, it serves as a stark reminder for Nashville residents to be aware of their surroundings when engaging in outdoor activities near bodies of water. Although alligator attacks are rare in Tennessee, the state is home to a growing alligator population, particularly in the western and southern regions. As Nashville's outdoor recreation scene continues to expand, it's crucial for residents and visitors to exercise caution when swimming, hiking, or participating in water sports in areas where alligators may be present. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency provides guidance on alligator safety and what to do in the event of an encounter. By being informed and taking necessary precautions, Nashvillians can enjoy the city's many parks and waterways while minimizing the risk of a potentially deadly alligator encounter. This incident highlights the importance of respecting wildlife and their habitats.
About this story
Original reporting by WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) . The Nashville surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 7, 2026 ·
Source: WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) ·
Reading time: 2 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. (Gray News) — Bite marks were used to identify the 12-foot alligator that fatally attacked a 31-year-old woman who was swimming in a Florida river, according to the medical examiner.The bite marks on Brittany Clark matched one of two alligators the Florida Fish and Wildlife ...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 7, 2026 by WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) and curated for The Nashville readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Amanda Alvarado at WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate). To learn more about how The Nashville selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Nashville, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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