Crocodile, Not Alligator, Kills Dog In Florida

In Brevard County, Florida, an American crocodile was discovered Monday having a dead dog in its mouth.

Residents of Satellite Beach say it took place around multiple homes on S. Patrick Drive, and this isn’t the first time that they’ve seen the beast.

The crocodile has been placed in permanent captivity by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) after “careful consideration,” however, locals feel like not enough action is being taken. (RELATED: Jamaican Government Warns Residents About Crocodiles Amid Flooding From Hurricane Melissa)

“It was just heartbreaking,” resident Zack Spurlock told WESH 2 News. “I’m a dog owner and I know they’re part of the family.”

The crocodile was spotted and caught on video swimming down a canal while the dog was in its jaws.

When FWC showed up to the scene, the croc was ultimately wrangled out of the water.

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Fire rescue was also at the scene to assist, with several residents stopping to witness the crocodile. Some say it’s not the first sighting.

The crocodile has undergone relocation three or four times, but it seems to always get back to the exact Satellite Beach canal where it was seen with the dog.

Spurlock stated that he’s spotted the crocodile numerous times in the past three years, taking multiple videos of it basking in the sun.

“It has zero fear of humans,” Spurlock told WESH. “When I saw that behavior, I knew something bad was going to happen.”

“Keep a safe distance if you see a crocodile,” said FWC, per the outlet. “If someone is concerned about a crocodile, they should call our toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286) so we can accurately assess and respond to the situation.”