The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) captured an alligator believed to have bitten a woman at Kings Bay in Crystal River, Citrus County, on Sunday, March 17, 2024, around 10:30 a.m.
The incident occurred at 3444 Kings Bay Road, Crystal River. According to the FWC, the alligator was caught and removed from the area. The woman who was bitten was treated for her injuries. The FWC is investigating the incident and working to determine how the alligator ended up in the area. Kings Bay is a popular spot for recreational activities such as kayaking and fishing.
The concern now is that a proposed sand mine near Kings Bay could potentially disrupt the local wildlife habitat and put more people at risk of encounters with alligators and other wildlife. The mine would be located near the intersection of Northwest 1st Avenue and Northwest 35th Street, Crystal River.
Residents and local officials are urging caution and further study on the potential environmental impacts of the mine. The Citrus County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on the proposal on April 2, 2024, at 4:00 PM at the Citrus County Historic Courthouse, 1 E. Main St., Inverness.
Originally reported by Citrus County Chronicle – Crystal River
