Wow, I didn't know Aldeer was loaded with so many people that have NEVER done something that they would look back on to regret, or say that was a stupid move. This poor family will live the rest of their lives in guilt and questioning themselves. It's nice to know the world, including this site, is in no shortage of folks ready to play judge/jury, ready to form an opinion on limited knowledge and throw rocks at the parents. To start with, the folks were from Nebraska where the worst thing that can happen with wildlife is a run in with a coyote or maybe step in an ant bed. I know, I lived there for nearly six years. I'm sure the thought of an alligator was the furthest thing from their mind because they have zero experience with them in the Midwest. Secondly, anyone that has been to the Disney resorts knows they have Disney sponsored activities on the beach at night for families. These activities are right along the shoreline and include movies, campfires/smores, entrances to water slides, etc... So, the fact that they were out there along the shoreline is VERY common at the resorts. Was the kid in the water's edge? Yeah, according to witnesses. Was it the smartest move? No it wasn't but what's done is done and how those parents won't end up putting a bullet through their own brain will be beyond me. Rather than being so quick to bash them though, try showing a little compassion and saying a prayer for them. Hug your own children and thank God for them, asking for Him to protect them.

Usually, alligators down here range from fresh to brackish waters. I've seen a few in the our canal right here in Port St. Joe that connects the Intercoastal Waterway to St. Joe Bay. Lake Wimico is full of 'em, too.

About 5 or 6 years ago, up in Panama City Beach, there was a big one spotted right behind Shell Island in the VERY salty St. Andrews Bay, and it was on the news. They can acclimate to a wide range of water, so be careful in ANY unfamiliar territory down here, even the bays. St Andrew Park Campground is loaded with them.

I agree with this 100%

Deadwood, how far are you from lake Seminole?

After living on the MS gulf coast and removing nuisance gators for several years I quickly learned they can be anywhere, from a Walmart parking lot to mud hole.

As terrible and tragic as this situation is, and all others involving the loss of a child, as a society we must take responsibility of our own actions. It is the responsibility of me to educate myself on potentially dangerous situations and inform my family. Unfortunately due to the personalization and assigning human character traits to animals by media and Hollywood, people grow up believing wild animals are capable of rational thought, emotion, and reason, which they are not. It's sad this happened, but the sadder fact is that people have no idea of what wild animals are capable of because we are no longer exposing ourselves to them and educating ourselves on their behavior.

Absolutely correct and they were from Nebraska and likely had no clue how dangerous it was. Plus there were no "alligator warning" signs just "no swimming" signs. .

It's not dark at 9:16 Eastern.

Oh hell yes it is. If you'd like I'll send you a picture at 8:45. I go to bed at 9:00