Attack caused near-complete amputation of both arms, report shows
The 11-page autopsy report, conducted by Orange County Associate Medical Examiner Jenaye Mack and released Thursday, states that Clark suffered “near complete traumatic amputations” of her left arm at the shoulder and her right forearm. The report also documented teeth marks on Clark’s left shoulder blade and collarbone.
Mack determined that Clark died from multiple blunt force injuries inflicted by the alligator and ruled the manner of death an accident.
Local officials previously said that Clark, 31, and her boyfriend Chance Allison were swimming in the Econlockhatchee River when the attack occurred. An FWC spokesperson said Allison attempted to free Clark from the alligator’s mouth. Emergency responders transported Clark to Orlando Regional Medical Center, where she died from her injuries that same day. According to the autopsy, Allison identified Clark’s body at the hospital.
The FWC said officials captured and euthanized two alligators from the river — one 12 feet long and one 13 feet long. Subsequent DNA testing linked the longer alligator to the attack.
FWC records indicate that the state is home to approximately 1.3 million alligators. The agency reported an average of about eight unprovoked alligator bites annually as of 2022, with only 26 fatalities from such attacks since 1948.
Clark’s online obituary said she worked as a heavy construction equipment operator and had earned the rank of foreman before her death. “She was ready to settle down, start her own family and begin new adventures,” the obituary read. Clark is survived by her parents and two siblings, according to the obituary. A celebration of life was scheduled for July 26 at a ranch in Geneva, Florida.