Tulum, Quintana Roo — An elderly man was injured after being attacked by a crocodile at Casa Cenote, a popular tourist spot in the Bahía Tankah area of Tulum.
The incident occurred along Federal Highway 307 near kilometer 246, in front of a hotel. The reptile, known to locals and visitors as “Panchito,” bit the man, causing panic among tourists at the scene.
According to witnesses, some visitors had been trying to interact with the crocodile while it swam in the cenote, even throwing objects to get its attention, before the attack.
Emergency services responded quickly. Civil Protection paramedics provided first aid and transported the victim to a hospital for further evaluation. Officials have not released details on the severity of his injuries.
The crocodile had become a familiar sight for tour operators, often swimming near people without showing aggression. However, environmental authorities have repeatedly warned that it is a wild animal and that any interaction can lead to unpredictable behavior.
The attack has reignited debate about the coexistence of tourists and wildlife in Tulum’s natural attractions, and the need for stronger prevention measures and signage to avoid such incidents.
