Woman Loses Arm in Florida Alligator Attack

Dina Rae Spann, 58, faced a harrowing ordeal when an alligator attacked her in Florida’s Silver River. The incident took place on a Saturday afternoon while she was swimming with a group, according to reports.

Zach Guerrina, Spann’s son, explained that his mother tried to keep the alligator’s mouth shut as she struggled to reach the surface for air. Despite her efforts, she lost her right arm, which had to be amputated below the elbow. She also sustained an injury to her left hand, losing part of her ring finger.

“It had her, but she was trying to make sure it didn’t get to her legs,” Guerrina shared.

Nearby, John Gamache, a frequent visitor to the Silver Springs area, heard cries for help while having lunch on his boat. He quickly approached the scene. By the time he reached the swimmers, the alligator had released Spann, apparently dissuaded by the approaching boat.

Gamache found Spann clutching a paddleboard, suffering from a severe arm injury. Using rope from his boat, he created a makeshift tourniquet to control the bleeding. “It was a terrible injury, bones poking out, blood everywhere,” Gamache recalled. “Obviously, the minutes mattered.”

Despite her serious injuries, Guerrina noted his mother’s calm demeanor as others sought to assist her. Gamache and his father later transported the group to a nearby boat launch where first responders awaited.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reported that a nuisance alligator trapper removed a 9-foot-8-inch alligator from the area the following day. Following the attack, authorities temporarily closed Silver River while wildlife officials conducted a search.

Gamache reflected on the event, stating it was unlike anything he had seen. Spann’s family later expressed gratitude to Gamache for his quick intervention. “They called earlier, and we talked for a while, and it was heartwarming to hear them explain their emotions,” he said. “We’re glad that it happened as good as it could have. The result is just the sustained injury and nothing more.”