Orlando, Florida — The boyfriend of Brittany Clark, the 31-year-old woman fatally mauled by a massive alligator in a Florida river, has broken his silence, sharing an emotional tribute to the woman he loved and describing the horror of helplessly trying to save her.

Chance Allison, who was hiking with Clark and a friend in the Little Big Econ State Forest on Sunday, June 29, desperately fought the 12- to 13-foot reptile after it ambushed Clark in shallow water. Despite his heroic efforts, Clark suffered catastrophic injuries and died en route to the hospital.

A Day That Turned Tragic

The group had paused their hike to cool off in the Econlockhatchee River, wading into about three feet of water. According to a medical examiner’s report and witness accounts, the alligator suddenly grabbed Clark by the arm and began its deadly “death roll.” Allison grabbed the animal in a frantic attempt to free her, but the struggle pulled them both underwater. He managed to pry one arm free, but the gator seized the other. Clark lost both arms in the attack.

Allison performed CPR on shore while 911 was called, but her injuries were too severe.

In a heartfelt Facebook post and text statements to media, Allison expressed his disbelief and grief: “I’m just still in disbelief of what took place. We had so many things planned out and memories to be made.” He described Clark as “the strongest and most outgoing person I’ve ever met,” noting her love for the outdoors, her job operating heavy machinery, and her adventurous spirit.

Investigation and Response

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) removed and euthanized two alligators from the area. Tests are underway to determine if one was the attacker. The Barr Street Trailhead remains closed. This marks the third alligator attack in the region within a short period, raising concerns about human-wildlife interactions in Florida’s waterways.

Clark’s family, including her brother Nate, has expressed deep gratitude to Allison for his bravery. “He was there for my sister when I couldn’t be,” Nate said. The family is raising funds to bring her remains back to California for burial.

This heartbreaking incident serves as a tragic reminder of the unpredictable dangers in Florida’s natural environments, even in seemingly safe, shallow waters. Our thoughts remain with Brittany Clark’s loved ones during this devastating time.