Snap Judgment Florida Alligator Man - Tooth & Claw
Jan 8, 2026
Eric Merda, a former landscaper and father of seven, shares his harrowing tale of survival after a near-fatal alligator attack in Florida. He delves into the shocking details of the encounter, including the death roll that almost cost him his arm. Eric talks about battling despair and navigating through the swamp with an open wound before ultimately being rescued. His story transforms from darkness to resilience as he now channels his experience into stand-up comedy and motivational speaking, inspiring others to fight for survival.
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Beach Cleanup As Therapy
- Eric Merda slept in his van and began picking up trash on Siesta Beach as a form of therapy during a low point in his life.
- He described the beach cleanup as a way to find peace while coping with losing his family and identity.
Alligator Attack In The Lake
- Eric followed trash into dense woods, cut himself badly, then decided to swim across a lake toward his van at night.
- He encountered an alligator that struck his forearm and began a violent death roll that ripped his elbow.
Instinctual Grip Delayed The Death Roll
- Eric instinctively grabbed the alligator's ribs to prevent a death roll and stayed conscious through repeated submersions.
- His fight-and-hold response prolonged survival but ultimately failed when his grip slipped.