In a dramatic turn of events, a Florida man has filed a lawsuit against a popular airboat attraction following an incident involving an alligator. The case, which highlights the potential dangers of wildlife encounters, has sparked a debate about safety measures and visitor responsibilities.
Edil Kasenov, a resident of Broward County, visited Airboat Rides at Midway in Christmas, Florida, on June 9, 2026. The visit took a unexpected turn when he participated in the attraction’s free Alligator Encounter experience, resulting in an alligator bite to his face.
The Incident and Allegations
The lawsuit, filed in Orange County, alleges that Airboat Rides at Midway was negligent in its handling of the alligator encounter. Kasenov’s legal team claims that the attraction failed to adequately train employees and warn visitors about the potential hazards of interacting with the reptiles.
According to the complaint, there were no visible warnings or signs indicating the dangerous nature of the alligator. Moreover, the lawsuit asserts that the attraction did not implement sufficient measures to restrain the alligator or protect participants.
Kasenov suffered serious injuries, including pain, suffering, disability, disfigurement, mental anguish, and loss of wages. The lawsuit seeks damages exceeding $50,000 to compensate for these losses.
The Attraction’s Response
Airboat Rides at Midway has vehemently denied the allegations, providing a detailed statement that sheds light on the incident. The attraction maintains that all participants are given clear instructions on how to handle the alligators safely. According to their protocol, the alligators’ mouths are banded shut to prevent bites, and visitors are instructed to hold the reptiles securely.
The statement emphasizes that Kasenov, who is a social media influencer, ignored the safety instructions. The attraction claims that Kasenov positioned his face close to the alligator for a photograph, which startled the animal and resulted in minor scratches. They also mentioned that Kasenov initially downplayed the incident on his social media platforms, even joking about it.
Airboat Rides at Midway has characterized the lawsuit as frivolous, suggesting that Kasenov is seeking financial gain. They have provided evidence of Kasenov’s social media posts, which they claim contradict his current allegations.
The Alligator Encounter Experience
Airboat Rides at Midway is a well-known attraction located off East Colonial Drive in Christmas. The attraction offers daily airboat rides on the St. Johns River, culminating in the Alligator Encounter experience. Visitors are invited to hold a baby alligator and take pictures, creating a memorable interaction with wildlife.
In the FAQ section of their website, Airboat Rides at Midway explicitly states that they use bands around the alligators’ mouths to prevent bites. They also provide detailed instructions on how to hold the alligators safely, emphasizing the importance of following these guidelines to avoid accidents.
The attraction’s website and statements highlight their commitment to safety and the well-being of their visitors. They stress that the Alligator Encounter is designed to be a fun and educational experience, with clear protocols in place to minimize risks.
As the legal battle unfolds, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety measures and visitor responsibility in wildlife encounters. It also raises questions about the balance between providing engaging experiences and ensuring the well-being of both participants and animals.
