If you live in say, Amarillo or El Paso, your chances of being ripped asunder by an alligator are pretty low (but never zero!).

 

canva
canva
loading...

However, plenty of Texas is framed by a coastline- full of many potentially harmful critters- from sharks to amoebas to these weird blue blobs.

And we must include the apex predator Alligator on that list.

How Many People Have Actually Died From Alligator Attacks In Texas

According to the Austin American Statesman, three people in Texas have died due to alligator attacks since records began being kept in 1960.

A quick glance at Wikipedia shows 2 more fatal attacks that we know of pre-1900s. So that's at the very least 4, which isn't a whole lot for a time span of over 300 years.

However, there are likely at least a few deadly alligator attacks in Texas that have been lost to history.

Who Were These People And How Did They End Up Dying This Way?

In 1685 an unnamed enslaved person was killed by an alligator while swimming across the Colorado River.

In 1836 Gray B. King was "seized and pulled under" by an alligator while trying to push a ferry.

In 2015 Tommie Woodward "mocked" an alligator and despite warnings, jumped into the water. His body was later found with severe trauma to the chest.

In 2024 the remains of an elderly woman were found in the mouth of a Houston alligator.

Where Are The Most Alligator Attacks In America?

FLORIDA. So many in Florida.

What Do I Do If I See An Alligator?

According to the Texas Department of Parks And Wildlife (TDPW), back away slowly, as it is rare for alligators to give chase. However, they can run up to 35 mph if they do. If you hear an alligator hiss, you are too close.

Do not swim in waters where alligators are spotting and if you encounter a "nuisance" alligator (that is an aggressive one, not one minding its own gator business) then report it to TDPW.

Can The Tables Be Turned On Alligators?

They already have! Far more people eat alligators than alligators eat people. And if you've never tried alligator- it is delicious! Kinda like a firmer scallop, in my opinion.

Cute Or Dangerous? Sharks You Could Encounter In The Texas Gulf Coast

Visiting the waters of the Texas Gulf Coast? These are the shark species you are most likely to encounter.

Gallery Credit: Renee Raven

Texas State Symbols: Weird, Wacky & Absolutely Perfect Signs of Our State

A look at some of the most iconic (and official) symbols of Texas, including our state flower, gem, plant, snack, fruit, and many more!

Gallery Credit: Renee Raven

We Can't Believe These Celebrities Weren't Born In Texas

These celebrities might not originally hail from the Lone Star State, but we are claiming them anyways.

Gallery Credit: Renee Raven