According to what Summer shared with FOX 35, the animal didn’t just bite her—it began shaking her violently once she was underwater, making it even harder for her to fight back or get her bearings. The entire encounter happened in a matter of seconds, but it left lasting emotional and physical marks.
She described the harrowing scene in vivid detail, recalling how helpless she felt as the alligator thrashed her around like a rag doll. Despite the fear, she found the strength to fight back the only way she could—by punching.
Summer said she was enjoying the water like any other teen might on a hot summer day when she suddenly “felt something brush up against me.” That moment was the first sign that something wasn’t right, and everything changed in an instant.
“Whenever he let go, I had started running up. And I had gotten up out of the water.” she said, recounting the moment she managed to scramble away and get herself out of the water as fast as she could.
The struggle between her and the alligator lasted only moments, but it was enough time for her instincts to kick in and save her life.
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After the attack, emergency responders were called to the scene, and Summer was rushed to the hospital. Authorities later confirmed that she had suffered serious injuries to her leg, but thankfully, doctors were able to treat them without needing to amputate. While her recovery may take time, her strength and courage during the attack have left many people in awe.