Boy, 9, fights off 9ft alligator attack
A nine-year-old boy managed to survive a Floridaalligator attack - and is now telling the tale from his hospital bed.
James Barney Jr was out for a bike ride in St. Cloud's Lakefront Park in Thonotosassa when he decided to stop and take a swim in a restricted area of Lake Tohopekaliga.
Not long into his swim, an alligator grabbed him from behind.
According to the Metro, James said he felt its teeth so turned and "hit it a couple of times", adding: "It let go a little, and then I had enough strength left to pry its jaw open a little."
James then took his opportunity to swim to shore, and was lifted out by passersby after calling for help.
According to the Daily Telegraph, the alligator bit the boy three times, leaving several wounds on his body - as well as a tooth in his leg.
He was flown by helicopter to a hospital in Orlando, where he is doing well - ands giving interviews about his great escape.
The swimming area of the lake was closed while officials worked to catch the alligator.
James had said he was keen to keep the tooth as a memento, but he said animal control took it to help them find the alligator that carried out the attack.
When asked if he'd be returning to the lake for a swim, he replied: "Negative."
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