A video broadcast live from the Everglades has placed a Cuban influencer associated with wildlife content in Florida at the center of controversy.
The images, which quickly went viral on social media, show several young people repeatedly shooting at an apparently motionless crocodile, in an act that is already being investigated by state authorities.
According to a report by the newspaper El Nuevo Herald, the incident occurred last Thursday when content creator Braden Peters -known as “Clavicular”- was navigating on a hydrofoil accompanied by several friends, including the Cuban Andrew Mora, popular on social media as “Tarzán Cubano.”
In the recording, Peters addresses his followers while watching the animal: “Is it dead?”, he asks, without taking his eyes off the front camera of his phone.
He then adds, "So, can we shoot him?" At another moment, he insists, "We need to check if he's dead."
A his side, Mora comments with laughter: "He just wants to shoot at something... he has an itch to pull the trigger."
Shortly thereafter, and after receiving the apparent approval from the pilot - "They can practically do whatever they want" - both proceed to shoot more than 25 bullets at the alligator.
The video generated an immediate public reaction and prompted the intervention of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), which confirmed that it is investigating the case.
“The FWC agents are investigating the incident and will provide additional information as soon as it becomes available,” the agency stated on social media.
State legislation is clear: harassing or killing alligators is prohibited, except under specific circumstances authorized by permits during regulated seasons.
If a violation is confirmed, those involved may face legal consequences.
Political reaction
There were also statements from the political sphere.
The Florida lieutenant governor, Jay Collins, was firm in condemning what happened: “Florida's wildlife and waterways deserve respect, not to be exploited for content creation.”
And he added: “Under my supervision, anyone who mistreats wildlife in the state will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. I expect to see charges brought against those who so brazenly disrespect our laws.”
The case has divided the audience on social media.
While some users justified the action, arguing that the animal was already dead and celebrated the act with expressions like mogging - which implies dominance or control - others demanded exemplary sanctions.
From viral influencer to scrutinized figure
The controversy also involves Andrew Mora, known as the "Cuban Tarzan", a widely followed figure on digital platforms for his videos interacting with wild animals in Florida.
Until now, his public image had been associated with viral content featuring him capturing iguanas, diving into canals, or handling reptiles in natural environments.
One of his most popular videos, with over 19 million views, shows him emerging from the water with two iguanas while exclaiming: “They almost got away!” (“¡Casi se escapan!”).
Based in South Florida, Mora has built a community of millions of followers with a style that blends adrenaline, spectacle, and direct interaction with local wildlife.
In previous publications, he has defended his activities, particularly regarding the capture of iguanas—an invasive species—stating:
"I don't do it for fame or money; I do it because iguanas are destroying the vegetation, and I want to contribute my part."
That discourse, focused on environmental usefulness and respect for nature, now contrasts with the images emerging from the Everglades, where the actions do not adhere to any species control or regulated practices.
A pattern of controversies
The episode of the alligator is not the only controversial element regarding those involved.
Peters, for example, has been previously involved in controversies, including his presence at a Miami Beach nightclub where Kanye West's song "Heil Hitler" was playing, and a recent arrest for minor assault charges stemming from a dispute between his girlfriend and another content creator.
However, it is the video of the alligator that has raised the most institutional concern, as it involves a possible environmental crime that was disseminated widely and in real time.
Between spectacle and legal limits
The case reignites the debate over the limits of extreme content on social media, especially when it involves wildlife.
In Florida, where ecosystems like the Everglades are protected by strict regulations, authorities have emphasized the need to act responsibly.
As the investigation progresses, the figure of the "Cuban Tarzan" is under a new spotlight: that of accountability in an environment where the line between entertainment and crime can be as fragile as it is dangerous.
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