Texas Tourist Bitten by Crocodile in Cancún

Cancún, Mexico — A foreign tourist was left injured in Cancún after being attacked by a crocodile in the city's Hotel Zone. The incident occurred on Friday, September 5, at kilometer 11 of the Kukulcán Boulevard.

According to reports made to the 911 emergency number, pedestrians and motorists noticed an individual on the ground near the lagoon, in the vicinity of the Hyatt hotel, and requested the presence of authorities. Officers from the Tourist Police subsequently arrived on the scene and interviewed the man on the ground.

Through their conversation with him, they learned he was a man originally from Texas who had been bitten by a crocodile in Cancún's Hotel Zone. The subject, identified as Mark, 31 years of age, stated that he had approached the lagoon upon seeing the crocodile with the intention of taking a photograph. He did not fully comprehend the risk and was consequently injured by the reptile.

The Texas native sustained several injuries from the crocodile attack; however, fortunately, none were considered serious, and his life was not at risk. After being examined by Cancún police and paramedics, he was transferred to the Clínica Quirúrgica del Sur. Hours later, he was reported to be in stable condition and out of danger.

The recommendation from Cancún authorities, including Civil Protection, Firefighters, and the Tourist Police, is to never approach crocodiles that may be spotted in the lagoon or mangrove areas, as this case demonstrates a significant risk exists.

Other Crocodile Sightings

Tourists enjoying Cancún's beaches were surprised by a crocodile swimming near the shore of the Hotel Zone in early April. While the scene may seem unusual, sightings of these reptiles are not exceptionally rare. The city is surrounded by ecosystems rich in biodiversity, such as mangroves, lagoons, and wetlands, which are natural habitats for these animals.

On average, there are approximately 15 reported crocodile sightings per year in Cancún. The areas where they are most commonly observed include the Lombardo Toledano and Corales neighborhoods, urban zones that border bodies of fresh water. Due to the proximity to the sea and the region's warm climate, it is possible for some specimens to move towards the beaches, especially in search of sun or food. But, as in this recent case, they also appear on Kukulcán Boulevard.