Despite her advanced age and an unprovoked attack by an aggressive alligator, an 84-year-old Florida woman defended herself with unwavering bravery, saving her own life and the life of her beloved pet.
On a fateful Thursday evening, as 84-year-old Dolores Boppel strolled with her Shih Tzu dog in North Fort Myers, Florida, a horrifying encounter unfolded. A large alligator, its instincts sharpened by hunger, lunged at Boppel, threatening both her life and the safety of her companion.
With lightning reflexes, Boppel protected her dog by tossing the helpless creature into the air. The alligator, momentarily distracted, turned its attention to Boppel, its sharp teeth sinking into her legs and fingers. In that perilous moment, an unyielding determination surged within Boppel.
Octogenarian Triumphs Over Alligator Attack: 84-Year-Old Woman Punches Reptile in Face
Mustering all her strength, the octogenarian unleashed a powerful punch to the alligator's face, sending the reptile reeling in pain. Boppel's extraordinary act of self-defense forced the alligator to retreat to safety, sparing both her and her dog from further harm.
As paramedics arrived, Boppel remained fully alert and in good spirits. Her wounds were treated, and she expressed gratitude to the medical professionals who cared for her. With a defiant spirit, she vowed to hold accountable those responsible for the attack, stating, "The park's gonna pay for this son of a b----."
Octogenarian Triumphs Over Alligator Attack: 84-Year-Old Woman Punches Reptile in Face
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission confirmed the incident, capturing the 7-foot, 3-inch alligator involved in the attack. The agency emphasized the rarity of serious alligator attacks on humans in Florida and urged residents to take precautions, including keeping pets away from water and adhering to designated swimming areas during daylight hours.
WITNESS ACCOUNTS:
Octogenarian Triumphs Over Alligator Attack: 84-Year-Old Woman Punches Reptile in Face
A witness who observed the aftermath of the attack described Boppel as running full speed towards her, screaming and waving her hands in distress. The witness's prompt response allowed for Boppel to receive immediate medical attention.
Another witness, alerted by Boppel's cries, rushed to the scene and found her crawling out of the water, her injuries evident. The witness checked on Boppel's dog, finding blood on its body, but believed it to be Boppel's.
Octogenarian Triumphs Over Alligator Attack: 84-Year-Old Woman Punches Reptile in Face
BOPPEL'S RECOUNT:
In a subsequent interview, Boppel recounted the harrowing experience. She described a sudden premonition of danger moments before the attack. When the alligator charged at her, she compared its speed to that of a torpedo.
"I punched it in the face," Boppel said. "I'm not sure if he swallowed some of my nails. He let go of me and went back into the water."
With unwavering resilience, Boppel expressed her eagerness to reunite with her dog, Queen, who also survived the ordeal.
Alligator attacks in Florida, while infrequent, can occur even in areas where humans are present. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission advises residents to exercise caution near bodies of water known to be inhabited by alligators, and to contact the agency immediately if an alligator poses a threat to humans or property.
