Teen girl attacked, bitten by 10-foot alligator in Florida, deputies say | FOX 35 Orlando
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Teen girl attacked, bitten by 10-foot alligator in Florida, deputies say

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Published  July 14, 2025 10:28am EDT
Florida
FOX 35 Orlando
15-year-old speaks out after fighting off 10-foot gator

15-year-old speaks out after fighting off 10-foot gator

15-year-old Summer Hinote fought off a 10-foot gator Monday and spoke with FOX 35's Stephanie Buffamonte about the frightening experience.

The Brief

    • A 15-year-old girl is recovering after being bitten and dragged underwater by a 10-foot alligator in Pond Creek, near Destin, Florida.
    • She escaped by punching the gator in the head, with help from a friend; she sustained severe leg injuries but avoided amputation.
    • The alligator remains at large, and the family is warning others to stay cautious around the creek.

OKALOOSA COUNTY, FlA. - A teenage girl is recovering after being bitten by a 10-foot alligator, according to the Walton County Sheriff's Office.

The incident occurred in Pond Creek, about 20 to 25 miles northeast of Destin.

Officials said the alligator bit 15-year-old Summer Hinote on the leg, dragged her underwater, and shook her violently. 

Deputies said she fought back by punching the animal in the head and managed to escape with the help of a friend.

Hinote suffered severe lacerations to her leg but did not lose it. Her mother rushed her to first responders for treatment. 

The alligator has not been captured, and the family is urging visitors to exercise caution around the creek.

The Source: This story was written based on information shared by the Walton County Sheriff's Office. 

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