Disney to post alligator warning signs after boy is dragged to his death

Disney is to install new signs warning of alligators following the death of a two-year-old boy who was dragged into a lake at one of its resorts in Florida. The entertainment giant says its beaches will remain closed and has ordered “a swift and thorough review” in the wake of Lane Graves’ death. The company has been praised by police for its actions, which have seen six alligators trapped and opened up in the hunt for the boy’s body. Its wildlife management system has ensured “that their guests are not unduly exposed to the wildlife in this area,” Orange County Sheriff Jerry Demings said before Lane’s body was recovered intact from the water.

All of our beaches are currently closed, and we are conducting a swift and thorough review of all of our processes and protocols. This includes the number, placement and wording of our signage and warnings.

Jacquee Wahler, vice president of Walt Disney World Resort

The boy, who was on holiday with his family from Nebraska, was dragged into the water and drowned as he paddled in the Seven Seas Lagoon on Tuesday. Although Disney had posted “no swimming” signs it did not have alligator warning signs, which are common around golf courses, ponds and public parks all over Florida. “The cause of death was ruled as a result of drowning and traumatic injuries,” the Orange County Medical Examiner’s Office said after a post-mortem examination on Lane. An investigation is under way but no criminal charges are likely to be brought against Disney, a spokeswoman added.

Words cannot describe the shock and grief our family is experiencing over the loss of our son. We are devastated and ask for privacy during this extremely difficult time

Lane Graves family

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