Alligator Handler Recovering After Terrifying Attack, Daring Rescue
SALT LAKE CITY — A Utah reptile center employee is recovering after an alligator yanked her into its enclosure during a presentation, thrashing her around before a fast-acting visitor leapt inside and helped free her from its jaws. Shane Richins, the company’s owner, said in an interview Monday that the handler was opening the enclosure to feed the alligator as usual, but this time the reptile “got a little extra spunky.” He said the center normally has a strict policy for a second handler to be nearby when employees are working with the alligators. “These gentlemen could have stayed in the safety zone as most of us would, but instead jumped into the situation, of their own volition, and helped secure the alligator,” the company said in a statement. “Their help, combined with the training of our staff member, probably saved her life and her limbs.” Go Ad-Free — And Protect The Free Press The next four years will change America forever.
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