Family issue plea to public as woman mauled to death in horrific alligator attack

The family of a woman mauled to death in a shocking alligator attack have paid tribute to an 'amazing' and 'fun-loving soul'.

Brittany Clark, 31, from California, was out hiking with her boyfriend and a friend in a Florida state park at the time.

The trio had been making their way through the Little Big Econ State Forest on Sunday (28 June) when they stopped for a swim to cool off in the Econlockhatchee River.

They had waded into the water when the alligator suddenly attacked Clark out of nowhere, biting at her arms and ripping one arm ‘completely off’ as it dragged her into a horrifying 'death roll' as her frantic boyfriend called 911 and tried to help.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission spokesperson Chad Weber said at a press conference: “She was bitten on both of her arms. The boyfriend was the one that made the phone call. He was trying to get her from the alligator’s mouth, and on the way to the hospital she did pass away from her injuries.”

Brittany Clark had been out hiking with her boyfriend and a friend when the incident happened (Facebook)

Her bereaved family has now set up a GoFundMe and is appealing for help to return Clark home and for prayers and support.

An aunt of Clark's wrote: "In memory of Brittany's fun loving spirit," before explaining the situation the family is now in: "My 31-year-old niece, Brittany, has just passed away in a completely bizarre accident. She was an amazing person and a fun-loving soul."

She added: "If anyone could have it in their hearts to help get her remains back to California to be with her parents, the family would be very grateful. Even if you cannot donate, please pray for our family as we navigate through this tragic journey."

At the time of writing, just over $5,000 has been raised so far.

Clark's brother, Nick, paid tribute to his little sister on Fox 35: "She was an amazing person; she was nice and helpful with anyone that needed any kind of help."

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission empathised with the family in the wake of the attack: “The FWC extends its deepest sympathies to the victim’s family and loved ones.

“Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.”

The 31-year-old had been taking a dip in a river when the attack happened (GoFundMe)

According to the Daily Mail, a medical examiner's report shows that her boyfriend, Chance Allison, bravely tried to fight off the alligator.

“Her boyfriend Chance grabbed the alligator trying to get it to release her when it took them both underwater,” the report stated.

“Chance attempted to bring them both to shore when the alligator finally let go and CPR was started on shore by her boyfriend, and 911 was called,” the report reads.

In shocking 911 call audio, horrifying screams can be heard as her boyfriend tells the handler he's 'trying to get her arms away’ from the alligator, telling them: “One arm is completely off.”

He pleaded with the operator for help: "We're far off the trail, we're off of a little launch area by the river... We need help now!"

Two alligators were captured and killed, and Weber stressed there was nothing to suggest the trio had goaded the alligators or acted maliciously.