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Triathlon Coach Escapes Alligator Attack by Gouging Eye

8/26/2026

Summary

Bruney Escapes Alligator

Jonathan Bruney, a U.S. triathlon coach, escaped an alligator attack by gouging its eye.
The attack happened at 10:35 a.m. on Aug. 23 in the Savannah River near North Augusta, South Carolina.
Bruney’s right arm suffered skin and fat damage, but muscle remained largely spared.
Teammate Matthew Davis used a swim buoy cord as a tourniquet.
Hospitalized by first responders, he aims to race Ironman Augusta on Sept. 27 after a water ban.

Summary

Riverkeeper Urges Caution

Riverkeeper posted a reminder urging river users to respect ecosystem after the attack.
South Carolina Natural Resources notified and began searching riverbank for an alligator.
Officials warn feeding alligators is illegal in South Carolina and Georgia because it encourages danger.
Experts advise keeping at least 60 feet from adult alligators to prevent attacks.
Riverkeeper advises backing away calmly, not zig-zagging, and calling state wildlife agency if the alligator behaves aggressively.

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Bruney Escapes Alligator

Jonathan Bruney, a U.S. triathlon coach, escaped an alligator attack by gouging its eye.
The attack happened at 10:35 a.m. on Aug. 23 in the Savannah River near North Augusta, South Carolina.
Bruney’s right arm suffered skin and fat damage, but muscle remained largely spared.
Teammate Matthew Davis used a swim buoy cord as a tourniquet.
Hospitalized by first responders, he aims to race Ironman Augusta on Sept. 27 after a water ban.

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