Alligator bites off Orlando woman's arm

Rachael D. Lilienthal taken to Orlando hospital; alligator euthanized

ORLANDO, Fla. – An Orlando woman lost her arm after she was bitten by an alligator while she was swimming in the Wekiva River.

Rachael D. Lilienthal, 37, was bitten at least twice during Saturday's alligator attack, according to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officials.

As she struggled with the alligator, kayakers came to her rescue, hitting the alligator with a paddle.

The alligator eventually released Lilienthal, and the kayakers brought her to a nearby marina.

Lilienthal was taken to Orlando Regional Medical Center. Her condition was not immediately known.

WKMG reported that Lilienthal teaches Spanish at Rollins Collins. She has also taught at Valencia Community College and Florida State University.

The FWC said the alligator that attacked her was captured and euthanized Sunday.

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