PUERTO VALLARTA (PVDN) – Two American tourists, on vacation at the Velas Vallarta hotel, sustained injuries following a rare encounter with a crocodile on a beach in Marina Vallarta, according to local authorities.
The incident occurred shortly after midnight on Monday, as a 42-year-old American tourist ventured into the sea. The tourist was unexpectedly attacked by a crocodile, triggering a swift response from a 24-year-old companion who entered the sea to assist.
The tourists sustained injuries to their upper and lower extremities, thorax, and abdomen. Despite the scare, Gerardo Castillo, Director of Civil Protection and Firefighters, assured that their injuries were not serious. The pair were subsequently transported to a nearby health center for further medical evaluation and treatment.
Castillo said a search was conducted on Tuesday to capture and relocate the crocodile, though initial attempts proved unsuccessful.
According to authorities, it is likely the crocodile had been displaced from its usual habitat by the strong currents of a local river, which had recently flooded due to heavy rains.
“These incidents are highly unusual in Puerto Vallarta,” said Castillo, adding that the reaction from the crocodile should not be construed as an unprovoked attack. “This is more likely a defensive response, given the circumstances.”
The Civil Protection and Firefighters department urges the public to remain cautious when venturing into unfamiliar territories, especially following severe weather conditions that can displace local wildlife.
Further updates will follow as authorities continue efforts to safely capture and relocate the crocodile. The condition of the injured tourists is expected to improve, with no life-threatening injuries reported at this time.
PUERTO VALLARTA (PVDN) – Two American tourists, on vacation at the Velas Vallarta hotel, sustained injuries following a rare encounter with a crocodile on a . . .
