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Davenport, FL - The Florida woman who tragically lost her life during a canoeing trip in Central Florida after an encounter with an alligator has been identified by authorities.
According to wildlife authorities, on the afternoon of May 6th, 61-year-old Cynthia Diekema of Davenport was paddling with her husband near the mouth of Tiger Creek on Lake Kissimmee when the couple’s canoe passed over what officials say was a large alligator.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reported the animal allegedly thrashed beneath the vessel, tipping it and throwing both occupants into the shallow water.
Officials say Diekema landed near or on the alligator, which then bit her and pulled her under.
Despite her husband's efforts to save her, she did not resurface.
Emergency crews were dispatched around 4:00 p.m., and Diekema's body was later recovered.
A contracted trapper captured and euthanized an 11-foot, 4-inch alligator believed to be involved in the incident.
Another gator measuring between 10 and 11 feet was also found in the area.
The investigation remains active as officials work to determine the exact circumstances of the attack.
“This is a heartbreaking loss,” said FWC Executive Director Roger Young.
“While fatal gator attacks are rare, this reminds us of the need to respect Florida’s wildlife.”
The FWC urges caution near freshwater during warmer months, when alligator activity increases.
Anyone with safety concerns is encouraged to contact the agency’s Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR.