POLK COUNTY, Fla. – What began as a peaceful afternoon on the tranquil waters of Lake Kissimmee turned into a horrific tragedy on Tuesday, when 61-year-old Cynthia Diekema of Davenport, Florida, was killed in a rare and violent alligator attack. The incident occurred near the mouth of Tiger Creek, a remote area of the lake known for its scenic beauty—and its thriving population of American alligators.

According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), Cynthia and her husband were enjoying a routine paddle in their 14-foot canoe in shallow water, estimated at about two-and-a-half feet deep. The couple had ventured near the thick aquatic vegetation close to the shoreline when, unbeknownst to them, they passed directly over a submerged alligator.

FWC investigators believe the canoe startled the reptile, triggering a sudden and aggressive response. In a flash, the alligator surfaced and lunged at the vessel, capsizing it and throwing both Cynthia and her husband into the water. Witnesses and officials describe the moment as “swift and violent.” While her husband managed to scramble to safety, Cynthia was pulled under.

Emergency crews were dispatched immediately after a frantic 911 call, but the outcome was devastating. Dive teams recovered Cynthia Diekema’s body several hours later. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Wildlife officers later confirmed that the attacking alligator, estimated to be nearly 11 feet long, was located and euthanized.

“This is an extraordinarily rare event,” said FWC spokesperson Amanda Phillips in a press conference Wednesday morning. “While Florida is home to millions of alligators, unprovoked attacks on humans—especially fatal ones—are exceedingly uncommon. But they can happen under very specific circumstances.”

According to FWC data, the state has averaged just eight unprovoked bites per year that require medical attention, and fatalities are even rarer. However, Lake Kissimmee is a known alligator habitat, home to thousands of the creatures due to its warm climate, abundant marshland, and ample food sources.

Residents and visitors alike are regularly reminded to exercise caution near Florida’s lakes and rivers, particularly during alligator mating season, which typically runs from May through June. During this time, the reptiles are more active and territorial, increasing the likelihood of dangerous encounters.

Friends and neighbors described Cynthia as a kind-hearted and nature-loving woman who often enjoyed outdoor activities with her husband. “They were always out on the water,” said family friend Judy Carmichael. “It was their peaceful place. None of us can believe this happened—it’s just heartbreaking.”

FWC officials are continuing their investigation to determine whether the area where the attack occurred should be temporarily restricted or posted with additional warnings. They are also reviewing protocols and public advisories to reinforce awareness among boaters and nature enthusiasts.

In response to the incident, local authorities are urging all residents and tourists to follow safety guidelines when recreating in or around freshwater bodies in Florida. These include staying at least 30 feet away from alligators, never feeding them, keeping pets away from the water, and avoiding paddling in narrow or overgrown waterways where visibility is low.

The tragedy has sparked renewed calls for educational campaigns about alligator safety, especially for those new to the region. “People move to Florida every day who have no idea what kind of wildlife we live alongside,” said Polk County Commissioner Raymond Taylor. “This is a sobering reminder that we share this land with some powerful creatures, and respect is absolutely necessary.”

Cynthia Diekema is survived by her husband, two children, and four grandchildren. A memorial service is planned for later this week in Davenport, where the community continues to mourn her sudden and shocking loss.

As investigations continue, authorities hope this incident, as rare and tragic as it is, will serve as a reminder of the unpredictable forces of nature—and the need for constant vigilance, even in moments of peace.