Cynthia Diekema dies in fatal Lake Kissimmee alligator attack

Cynthia Diekema dies in fatal Lake Kissimmee alligator attack
Fatal Lake Kissimmee alligator attack death of Cynthia Diekema

A significant loss occurred when Cynthia Diekema, aged 61, passed away due to an unfortunate alligator encounter while spending time on the water with her husband. The incident took place in Florida.

Further details indicate the attack happened during a canoe trip near the mouth of Tiger Creek in Polk County. The canoeing couple encountered an alligator measuring about 11 feet and 4 inches that was submerged. The victim and her husband fell into the water, and the alligator subsequently attacked, biting the woman and performing a deadly maneuver that dragged her underwater. Despite the husband’s attempts to rescue her, the outcome was fatal.

Officials from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) stated that the husband tried to intervene directly with the alligator. Responders, including professionals trained to handle such situations, arrived at the scene and safely removed the alligator from the area.

Cynthia Diekema, originally from Michigan, is remembered by her family. Her husband Dave, children, and grandchildren are left to cope with her loss. An obituary noted her positive qualities and her loving nature.