Officials capture and kill alligator that dragged two-year-old boy to his death at Disney World

Florida wildlife officials believe they have captured and euthanized the alligator that dragged a two-year-old Nebraska boy into the Seven Seas Lagoon at Walt Disney World. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said it has suspended alligator trapping activities in the area and that it is confident

the alligator responsible for the attack has been removed.

Officials said in a news release on Wednesday that they have based their conclusions on expert analyses and observations by staff with extensive experience in investigating fatal alligator bites.

During the investigation, a total of six alligators were humanely removed from the area.

The FWC said DNA was collected from the victim and the alligators captured, however since his wounds did not contain any alligator DNA it is difficult to make an exact match.

The commission confirmed the alligator has been euthanized and Lane's family did not did not have an immediate comment on the news, according to People.

'There are no words to describe the profound sadness we feel for the family of Lane Graves,' Nick Wiley, executive director of the FWC, said in the release.

'We will continue to keep this family close to our hearts as they deal with the pain and grief of the loss of Lane.' 

Officials said their conclusions also took into account the proximity to the attack site of removed alligators and witness descriptions.

FWC said trappers captured three alligators in the size range believed to fit the subject animal.

Two of the animals captured were near the area of the attack, and based on past experience, the alligator responsible is usually located in close proximity to the attack site, officials said.  

Authorities said an alligator pulled Lane into the water June 14, despite the frantic efforts of his father.

Police divers found Lane's body underwater the following afternoon, not far from where he was taken.

An autopsy found that he died from drowning and traumatic injuries. On Tuesday, his loved ones gathered as they laid him to rest. 

At the time of the attack, the resort had 'No Swimming' signs that did not mention alligators. 

Disney has since installed signs by the lagoon warning guests of alligators and snakes. 

The beach at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is across a lake from the Magic Kingdom.

The FWC said alligator attacks are a very rare occurrence in Florida.

'FWC works diligently to keep Floridians and our visitors safe and informed on what to do if they spot a potentially dangerous alligator,' the release said.

Source:Dailymail