Expert says Brittany Clark nearly did everything right before fatal Florida alligator attack

Clark, a 31-year-old California native, was swimming in three feet of water in the Econlockhatchee River when a 13‑foot alligator fatally attacked. Wildlife biologist Joseph Wasilewski said she had taken precautions—daytime swimming and a lookout—and wasn’t taking obvious risks, but nesting-season gator behavior likely played a role; his takeaway: Florida waters are dangerous and the safest option is to stay out. Clark’s boyfriend called 911; authorities note serious alligator bites are rare and operate a nuisance-gator program, while a GoFundMe to help return her body to California has raised funds.