News Summary

A 77-year-old man was airlifted to a hospital following a severe alligator attack while performing yard work in Beaufort County. Witnessed by his wife, who tried to intervene, the incident raised concerns about alligator safety as the mating season approaches. The alligator, measuring 8.5 feet, was euthanized shortly after the attack. Residents are urged to be cautious near bodies of water, especially during this period marked by increased alligator aggression.

Beaufort County Man Airlifted After Alligator Attack

A 77-year-old man was airlifted to the hospital following an alligator attack in Beaufort County on April 9, 2025.

Joseph Roeser was engaged in yard work at his home in Sun City Hilton Head when the incident occurred around 10 a.m. His back was turned to a nearby pond as he was laying down mulch.

• Injuries: Roeser sustained injuries to his right leg and at least one arm.
• Condition: He was alert and conscious during transport to the hospital, but his current condition remains unknown.

His wife, Marian Roeser, witnessed the attack and attempted to save him by poking the alligator in its eyes and striking its head with a tomato stake. The alligator, measuring approximately 8.5 feet in length, was subsequently euthanized by a contractor from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Investigations are ongoing, as confirmed by a DNR spokesperson. This attack highlights a concerning trend in the area:

• Past incidents include fatal alligator attacks on an 88-year-old woman in August 2022 and a woman who died while rescuing her dog in July 2023.
• Beaufort County Animal Services had issued warnings about alligator activity, especially after a dog was killed in March 2025.

Officials note that alligator mating season from April through June can lead to increased aggression among male alligators. Residents are advised to remain vigilant around bodies of water during this time.

• Safety Recommendations: DNR urges individuals to report aggressive alligators and exercise caution near water.
• Many community members are aware of the dangers but still encounter challenges in avoiding encounters with gators.

This incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks surrounding wildlife in suburban environments.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

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Alligator Fatally Attacks Dog in Sun City, SC
Lowcountry Residents Warned About Feeding Alligators

Additional Resources

• WJCL: Sun City Hilton Head Alligator Attack Rescue
• Wikipedia: Alligator
• WTOC: Man Airlifted After Alligator Attack
• Google Search: Alligator Attack Safety
• Fox Carolina: South Carolina Man Attacked by Alligator
• Google Scholar: Alligator Behavior
• ABC News: Quick-Thinking Wife Saves Husband from Alligator Attack
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Alligator
• Island Packet: Local Alligator Attack News
• Google News: South Carolina Alligator Attacks

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