Florida Man Drives Truck Over 11-Foot Alligator to Rescue Neighbor From Attack

In a harrowing incident on April 19, 2024, a Florida man named Walter Rudder drove his truck over an 11-foot alligator to save his neighbor, Rick Fingeret, from a vicious attack in Collier County. Fingeret was walking his dogs near a pond when the massive reptile lunged out of the water and clamped down on his leg.

Rudder, who was driving by at the time, witnessed Fingeret lying on the ground, waving his arm frantically as the alligator maintained its grip. Without hesitation, Rudder stepped out of his vehicle and approached the scene. Fingeret begged Rudder to run over the alligator, hoping the impact would force it to release its jaws. Rudder quickly returned to his truck and drove over the alligator, causing it to let go of Fingeret's leg and retreat into the water.

Fingeret sustained injuries to his leg and calf from the alligator's powerful bite. Rudder's wife provided initial first aid to Fingeret's wounded thigh until paramedics arrived on the scene. Fingeret was then airlifted to a nearby hospital for further treatment. He is currently recovering from the ordeal, and doctors expect him to make a full recovery. Fortunately, neither of Fingeret's dogs were harmed during the incident.

Why this matters: This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers posed by Florida's wildlife, particularly during alligator mating season when the reptiles are more aggressive. It also highlights the importance of quick thinking and bravery in life-threatening situations, as demonstrated by Walter Rudder's actions to save his neighbor's life.

Following the attack, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was able to locate and safely remove the alligator from the area. The FWC advised residents to maintain a safe distance from wildlife and respect the animals' natural habitats. "Animals have their own comfort zones that should be respected," an FWC spokesperson stated. "Alligators are opportunistic feeders that can be dangerous if approached too closely." While alligator attacks on humans are considered extremely rare in Florida, with only around 450 recorded since 1948, this incident underscores the need for caution and awareness when living in close proximity to these powerful predators.

Key Takeaways

• Florida man drives truck over 11-ft alligator to save neighbor from attack.
• Neighbor sustained leg injuries from alligator's powerful bite, airlifted to hospital.
• Alligator removed from area by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
• Alligator attacks on humans are rare in Florida, but caution is advised.
• Incident highlights importance of quick thinking and bravery in life-threatening situations.