12-Year-Old Girl Attacked by 12-Foot Alligator in North Carolina Lake, Brother Saves Her

12 Year Old Girl Attacked By 12 Foot Alligator In North Carolina Lake, Brother Saves Her

A 12-year-old girl is recovering after a jaw-dropping close call with a 12-foot alligator while swimming at a lake in North Carolina.

Yes, you read that right — twelve feet of prehistoric power came charging at a kid just trying to enjoy her summer.

The incident happened on June 15 while the girl was playing in a lake at the popular Lake Forest beach area in Brunswick County. The animal lunged out of the water, bit down on her thigh and lower back, and tried to drag her under.

Her brother immediately pulled her out of the water, likely saving her life. The alligator was later measured at 12 feet long.

She was first taken to a local hospital, then airlifted to another for further treatment. According to a Facebook post from Brunswick County Emergency Services, she’s now in stable condition and expected to recover.

North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission officers responded quickly, and yes, the alligator was captured and euthanized. Sad for the gator, but let’s be real — it picked the wrong target.

“This was an isolated incident,” officials told People.com, adding that alligator attacks in the state are rare. Still, summer swimmers are being urged to stay alert and keep a safe distance from the water’s edge, especially in known gator habitats.

The girl’s family has asked for privacy as she recovers, but they’re thankful for the fast emergency response — and their son’s quick thinking.

Alligators are native to North Carolina, especially in the southeastern part of the state. But full-on attacks? They’re practically unheard of — which makes this one all the more chilling.

Officials say they’re investigating whether recent heat or drought conditions may have pushed the animal further inland in search of food. But for now, beachgoers in Brunswick County are on high alert.

Want a summer thrill? Maybe stick to the pool.