A Florida resident has initiated legal action against a local tourist attraction, claiming he sustained serious injuries following an alligator bite during a recent encounter. Edil Kasenov, a Broward County native, has filed a civil lawsuit seeking over $50,000 in damages from Airboat Rides at Midway, located in Christmas, Florida. This action comes in response to an incident that took place on 9 June 2025 during the company’s “free alligator encounter” event.
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According to the details provided in the court filing made on 20 May, Kasenov asserts that he was bitten on the face by an alligator. He alleges that this incident was a direct result of negligence on the part of the attraction, which he claims failed to provide adequate safety measures. Kasenov contends there were no signs or warnings regarding the inherent dangers of handling the alligator, nor were there any effective restraints employed for the animal.
In his complaint, Kasenov describes the alligator encounter as creating an “unreasonably hazardous condition” and emphasises that appropriate precautions were not taken. He claims to have suffered from “serious bodily injuries”, including ongoing issues such as physical impairment and disfigurement, alongside financial repercussions from lost wages and medical expenses incurred due to the incident.
Airboat Rides at Midway, which operates tours along the St. Johns River, presents itself as a provider of thrilling adventures for tourists, offering opportunities to hold alligators and take photographs. However, the company has responded to Kasenov’s claims by stating that participants are given clear instructions on how to safely handle the reptiles. They stress that guests are advised not to place their faces near the alligator to avoid startling the animal.
In a statement shared with local media, the company explained its practices regarding safety. They noted that while they do not tape the alligators’ mouths shut, they do use a band around their mouths to reduce the risk of bites. The company reiterated that participants are instructed to support the alligator securely and maintain it at a safe distance from their faces.
According to Airboat Rides at Midway, Kasenov did not heed the guidance provided. They claim he positioned his face too close to the alligator for a family photo. The company alleges that when Kasenov leaned in, the animal grew startled and swung its head back, resulting in what they describe as minor scratches on his cheekbone. The company further claimed that they attended to Kasenov immediately after the incident, providing him with ointment and confirming his wellbeing at the time.
The disparity between Kasenov’s perspective and the company’s account highlights a significant issue surrounding safety in animal encounters, particularly in tourist settings. Kasenov’s lawsuit seeks a jury trial, reflecting the seriousness with which he views his claim of negligence against the attraction.
Social media posts from Kasenov appear to touch upon his experience following the incident. In a translated Instagram post dated 12 June 2025, he shared his ordeal of being released from the hospital after receiving treatment. Despite the challenges he faced, he emphasised the importance of perseverance, stating that true discipline entails continuing to pursue one’s goals in the face of adversity, even after an accident like his.
This case underscores the ongoing debate regarding the safety protocols in place at attraction venues where visitors interact closely with wild animals. As incidents like these raise concerns, it prompts further scrutiny of both the experiences offered and the responsibilities of establishments operating such encounters.
With Kasenov’s claims set to be reviewed in a court of law, both parties await the resolution of this unusual and troubling incident that has brought together elements of personal injury, animal safety, and tourism practices. The outcome of this lawsuit may significantly impact how similar attractions conduct their animal encounters in the future, and potentially shape regulations within the industry.