Kids Went Into No-Swim Zone. Then Came the Alligator

A Florida swim in a prohibited preserve ended with a child in the hospital and a hunt for a large alligator. Authorities say a young swimmer was bitten Monday afternoon at Weeki Wachee Preserve in Hernando County, where swimming is banned, per Fox News. The alligator, estimated at 9 to 12 feet long, left puncture wounds on the child's arm and leg; the injuries are not considered life-threatening.

The attack stranded the victim and other juveniles on a sandbar until Hernando County Fire Rescue's marine unit reached them, per CBS News. The child was taken to Bayonet Point Hospital. A licensed trapper has since set traps for the gator, and state wildlife officials are investigating the swimming violation. An animal expert cited the case as a reminder to only enter designated swimming areas in alligator country.