alligator bit – A Broward County man says an alligator handed to him during a complimentary “Alligator Encounter” bit his face at Airboat Rides at Midway in Christmas, Florida, and he has sued the company for negligence in Orange County Circuit Court.
A man visiting a Florida airboat attraction says a handling moment turned into a nightmare when an alligator bit him in the face—an incident that now has turned into a negligence lawsuit filed in state court.
Edil Kasenov, a Broward County resident, filed the lawsuit against DCML Enterprises, LLC, which operates Airboat Rides at Midway in Christmas, Florida. The complaint was filed in Orange County Circuit Court on May 20, 2026.
Kasenov alleges that on June 9, 2025, he visited the attraction and participated in a free “Alligator Encounter” offered to visitors. During the experience, the lawsuit says an alligator handed to him by an employee bit him in the face.
The complaint argues the company failed to use reasonable care in handling the alligator and did not adequately protect guests taking part in the encounter. Kasenov also says employees handling the alligator were not properly trained or supervised. and that no warnings were provided to visitors about the risks of the activity.
“There were no warnings, signs or other devices to warn or indicate the vicious nature of the subject alligator,” the lawsuit states.
The filing further alleges that during the incident, no measures were used to restrain the alligator or otherwise protect Kasenov.
Kasenov is seeking damages exceeding $50,000 and has requested a jury trial. The complaint says he suffered serious bodily injuries and lasting damage. including pain and suffering. disability. physical impairment. disfigurement. mental anguish. inconvenience. lost wages and diminished enjoyment of life.
Airboat Rides at Midway offers more than tours. The attraction, located in Christmas, east of Orlando, promotes animal encounters as part of the visitor experience. According to the company’s website. guests can hold an alligator and take photographs during the complimentary Alligator Encounter offered after tours. The attraction also offers airboat tours on the St. Johns River.
The company disputes Kasenov’s account. In a statement provided to Fox 35 Orlando. Airboat Rides at Midway said participants are instructed on how to hold the animals properly and are specifically warned not to place their faces near the alligators. The company also said alligator mouths are banded shut before being handed to guests and characterized the lawsuit as meritless.
Kasenov’s lawsuit sets up a direct clash over what visitors were told, how the animals were handled, and whether guests like him were truly safeguarded during an encounter marketed as part of the experience.
alligator bite lawsuit Airboat Rides at Midway DCML Enterprises Orange County Circuit Court Christmas Florida negligence animal encounter