A Florida man is taking legal action against an airboat company after an alligator bit his face during a free encounter experience. Edil Kasenov, from Broward County, visited Airboat Rides at Midway in June 2025 and participated in the complimentary 'Alligator Encounter' offered to guests, according to a lawsuit obtained by WKMG News 6.
The lawsuit alleges that the alligator bit Kasenov in the face, causing serious bodily injuries. He is seeking damages exceeding $50,000, citing pain and suffering, disability, disfigurement, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, lost wages, and medical expenses. The suit accuses the business of negligence, claiming it failed to properly train employees and warn Kasenov of the dangerous nature of the encounter.
According to the lawsuit, 'There were no warnings, signs or other devices to warn or indicate the vicious nature of the subject alligator. Additionally, there were no measures used by Defendant to restrain the alligator or otherwise protect the Plaintiff.'
Airboat Rides at Midway's website states that its captains are U.S. Coast Guard Master Captains. Its FAQ section notes that animals can bite, stating, 'We don't tape their mouths closed. They still have their bottom jaws, so DON'T stick your hand or face in or around their heads. When you hold the alligators, we do put a band around their mouths to prevent any bites.'
In a statement to The Independent, the company claimed that workers give guests instructions on handling the alligators, which have bands around their mouths. It alleged that Kasenov ignored these instructions and that the alligator 'swung its head, slapping (him) in the check (sic) bone causing some minor scratches.' The company described the lawsuit as 'frivolous' and noted that it offered medical care.
Kasenov, who has 1 million Instagram followers, appeared to reference the incident on his account. He is represented by Berman & Berman. The Independent has sought comment from his lawyers.
