A Florida man has launched a legal battle against an airboat company, alleging negligence after a supposed fun-filled encounter with an alligator ended in a painful bite to his face. Edil Kasenov, hailing from Broward County, claims the incident occurred during a complimentary “Alligator Encounter” at Airboat Rides at Midway, located approximately 30 miles east of Orlando, in June 2025. His lawsuit, obtained by WKMG News 6, paints a harrowing picture of an experience that turned dangerously sour.
The Incident: From Encounter to Injury
Kasenov’s visit to the airboat company took a dark turn when he confronted a baby alligator during the encounter. According to court documents, he suffered significant injuries, leading him to seek over £50,000 in damages. The lawsuit outlines a catalogue of afflictions stemming from the encounter, including severe pain, mental distress, and a diminished capacity to enjoy life.
Kasenov alleges that the airboat company failed to adequately train its staff or provide sufficient warnings about the potential dangers associated with the alligator experience. The suit claims there were “no warnings, signs or other devices” to alert him to the alligator’s aggressive nature.
Claims of Negligence
The core of Kasenov’s allegations lies in the assertion that Airboat Rides at Midway neglected its duty to protect its customers. He argues that the absence of proper safety measures allowed the alligator to bite him without restraint. The lawsuit further contends that the company did not take necessary precautions to avert the incident, leaving guests vulnerable to the unpredictable nature of the reptiles.
In response, Airboat Rides at Midway defended its practices, stating that all of its airboat captains are U.S. Coast Guard Master Captains and that guests receive detailed instructions on how to handle the baby alligators. Their website explicitly warns visitors against placing their hands or faces near the animals, emphasising that while the alligators are equipped with restraints during handling, they do retain the ability to bite.
A Contentious Response
In a statement to the media, the airboat company claimed that Kasenov disregarded the safety instructions provided by staff, which are designed to minimise risks during the encounter. They asserted that following the incident, they offered medical assistance after the alligator reportedly swung its head, causing scratches to Kasenov’s cheekbone. The company has categorised the lawsuit as “frivolous,” suggesting that it is motivated by monetary gain rather than genuine grievance.
Kasenov, who boasts a substantial following of one million on Instagram, has alluded to the incident on his social media platform, further stoking public interest in the case. His legal representation, the law offices of Berman & Berman, have not yet provided comment on the ongoing situation.
The Broader Implications
This incident highlights the precarious balance between entertainment and safety in wildlife interactions. As thrill-seekers flock to experiences that bring them face-to-face with nature’s most formidable creatures, the responsibility of businesses to ensure customer safety becomes paramount.
Airboat Rides at Midway’s handling of safety protocols and guest instructions will undoubtedly come under scrutiny as this case progresses, raising questions about the adequacy of current regulations governing wildlife encounters.
Why it Matters
The outcome of this lawsuit could have far-reaching implications not just for Airboat Rides at Midway but for the entire sector of wildlife tourism. As incidents involving potentially dangerous animals become more frequent, the need for comprehensive safety measures and clear communication becomes increasingly critical. This case serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us that the thrill of adventure must never come at the cost of personal safety.
