Cynthia Diekema Polk County FL Death and Obituary – The death of 61-year-old Cynthia Diekema in an alligator attack on Lake Kissimmee in Polk County, Florida, has brought renewed attention to the risks associated with outdoor recreation in areas inhabited by powerful native wildlife. Diekema, a resident of Davenport, lost her life in a tragic accident while canoeing with her husband in a region known for its dense alligator population.
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), the couple was navigating a small 14-foot canoe through shallow waters at the mouth of Tiger Creek, an area where alligators are commonly found. The canoe reportedly passed over a submerged alligator, which reacted by thrashing violently, causing the vessel to overturn. In the chaos, Diekema ended up on top of the alligator and was bitten fatally. Despite her husband’s desperate attempts to save her, he was unable to prevent the attack.
FWC officials, along with law enforcement, responded swiftly to the scene. Rescue efforts led to the recovery of Diekema’s body. The attack is not believed to have been predatory in nature but rather a tragic accident exacerbated by the fact that it occurred during the alligator mating season—a time when these animals are more active, territorial, and unpredictable.
Following the incident, the FWC contracted nuisance alligator trappers who captured two large alligators near the scene, one measuring over 11 feet and another estimated at 10 to 11 feet. These reptiles fit the description of the one involved in the attack and were removed as part of standard wildlife response procedures.
Lake Kissimmee is well-known for its significant alligator population, and this incident underscores the ongoing need for awareness and precaution in such environments. Florida is home to an estimated 1.3 million alligators, and while unprovoked attacks are rare, the potential for danger always exists in areas where human activities overlap with wildlife habitats.
The FWC has reiterated its commitment to public safety, emphasizing the importance of respecting natural habitats, particularly during peak wildlife activity seasons like mating. In addition to direct responses to incidents, the agency continues its broader wildlife management efforts, including issuing controlled hunting permits to help maintain a balanced alligator population.
The death of Cynthia Diekema is a somber reminder of the need for vigilance and education when engaging in outdoor recreation in Florida’s rich but potentially hazardous natural landscapes. The incident remains under investigation, and authorities are reviewing safety guidelines and conservation strategies to minimize the risk of similar tragedies in the future. In the meantime, the FWC urges residents and visitors alike to remain cautious, respect wildlife boundaries, and stay informed about local conditions when exploring Florida’s waters.