Thirteen-year-old Gabriel Klimis recounted his terrifying ordeal after an alligator latched onto his leg while he was playing with friends in Howell Creek, Winter Springs, Florida. Following a leap from a rope swing, Gabriel landed with one foot on the sandy creek bed when the alligator seized his other leg, dragging him backward into the water.

In a Friday interview with FOX 35, Gabriel, seated beside his mother, described the intensity of the alligator's grip. He knew escaping would be impossible if the alligator maintained its hold. Thinking quickly, Gabriel clung to a stick on the bank to prevent being pulled further into the creek. He fought back, striking the alligator until it released its grip, allowing him to scramble to safety.

Gabriel then sought help at a nearby residence and contacted his mother, Allison Klimis. A doctor herself, Allison expressed her shock and fear upon hearing the news. Despite the traumatic experience, Gabriel remained remarkably composed during his 911 call, informing the dispatcher that he had been bitten but was able to walk. He downplayed the severity of his injuries, stating they only "stung a bit." Unaware of the alligator's whereabouts after escaping, Gabriel focused on getting out of the water quickly.

After receiving stitches at a local hospital, Gabriel's mother shared her immense relief and gratitude for his survival. Despite the harrowing encounter, Gabriel's spirit remained undeterred. He expressed his intention to continue enjoying summer activities, including swimming in other creeks with his friends. The family confirmed that a nuisance trapper eliminated an alligator in Howell Springs after the attack, though it remains uncertain if it was the same one that bit Gabriel. This incident follows recent alligator attacks in Florida, including the tragic death of an 85-year-old woman in Fort Pierce and the amputation of a man's arm in Port Charlotte.