A South Florida man is suing a popular Central Florida airboat attraction after he was bitten in the face by an alligator during a free encounter experience last summer.
Edil Kasenov of Broward County filed the negligence lawsuit in Orange County against DCML Enterprises LLC, doing business as Airboat Rides at Midway, in Christmas, Florida. The incident occurred on June 9, 2025, at the business located at 28501 East Colonial Drive, about 30 miles east of Orlando.
According to the complaint, Kasenov participated in the attraction’s complimentary “Alligator Encounter” at the end of an airboat tour on the St. Johns River. An employee handed him a small alligator, which then bit him in the face.
The lawsuit alleges the company failed to provide adequate warnings, signs, restraints, or training to protect participants from the animal’s “vicious nature.” Kasenov claims he suffered serious injuries, including disfigurement, requiring hospitalization and causing other ongoing impediments.
He is seeking damages in excess of $50,000. The business has reportedly denied the allegations, describing the incident as minor scratches from the alligator slapping his cheek and asserting that Kasenov did not follow instructions.
Airboat Rides at Midway is a longstanding tourist attraction offering airboat tours and close-up wildlife experiences in the Florida wilderness. Such alligator encounters are common at similar venues but carry inherent risks due to the unpredictable nature of wild animals.
The case highlights ongoing discussions about safety standards at Florida wildlife tourist attractions, where visitors seek thrilling, hands-on experiences. No other injuries or similar incidents at the location were immediately detailed in court filings.
The lawsuit remains active in Orange County court, with no trial date set.
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