Story perspectives
Optometrist Survives Brutal Alligator Attack in Florida
9/10/2025
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Story summary
- Dr. Amber Perren, an optometrist from Stuart, Florida, survived a severe alligator attack this summer on the St. Lucie River, resulting in broken bones and a severed artery in her hand.
- Her husband rescued her, leading to a struggle with the 8-foot alligator.
- Dr. Perren underwent five surgeries and now has numbness in her hand.
- Florida has approximately 1.3 million alligators, with 7-8 unprovoked attacks reported annually.
- A University of Florida study shows that 96% of alligator attacks result from risky human behavior, highlighting the need for caution near water.
