Florida Man Survives Alligator Attack Then Fatally Shot by Deputies

In Polk County, Florida, Timothy Schulz, 42, was fatally shot by deputies shortly after surviving an apparent alligator attack in a local lake known for its alligators. Schulz was first reported acting erratically at a convenience store, leading deputies to search for him before residents spotted him swimming with an alligator nearby. After emerging from the lake with what appeared to be an alligator bite, Schulz wielded garden shears and used a brick in an attempt to break into a truck. When deputies confronted him, he charged at them despite being tasered twice and even tried to access a deputy's rifle by climbing into a patrol vehicle. Deputies, including a trainee and trainer, then opened fire, fatally wounding Schulz, who had a history of methamphetamine-related arrests and was recently released from jail. The incident is under internal investigation, with Sheriff Grady Judd noting the bizarre nature of Schulz's behavior possibly linked to substance abuse.