As absolutely horrific as this specific incident was, I just can't see how Disney can be held liable for this (legally), even if they had ZERO signs on the beach.
As the sheriff stated multiple times during the presser - "Gators are simply part of the landscape here in Florida". Regardless of measures taken to try to eliminate as many as they see (which they've repeatedly stated they do) there is simply no way to 100% guarantee there are no gators at Disney. I think there is possibly more disgust due to the type of animal that caused this boys death - most of us have seen (even via TV or videos) gators taking down prey and it's just terrifying to watch. Let alone when the prey is a 2 year old child. FWIW, I've only been to Disney twice, but I know there are gators that lounge at the pond at Shades of Green.
My question is this: Would people feel Disney were liable if say, a venomous snake had struck the boy and he died? Or what about even something as simple as a bee or a spider (and the child died). We can only compare different methods of death to really determine if Disney should be held responsible and just how many warning signs need posted, and where? I think the fact that the child likely passed in a situation that is a parents worst nightmare is what makes it so tragic.
I just can't even fathom how horrific the sight was - to see your child ripped from your arms and then pulled under water while you struggle to hang on. Absolutely terrifying!! Those poor parents.
Yet - should Disney be held liable for any and all species that make their way onto their property and behave in the manner they were intended? I'm not sure. I do know that my prayers are with this family and I truly hope they are able to (by some miracle) recover this little boy.
