Family of Holly Jenkins settles lawsuit following fatal South Carolina alligator attack

The family of Holly Jenkins, a 69-year-old grandmother killed by an alligator in South Carolina, has reached a confidential settlement with her residential community.

Mrs Jenkins was fatally attacked on 4 July 2023, while walking her dog within the Spanish Wells neighbourhood on Hilton Head Island.

The settlement, approved on 5 May, concludes a wrongful death lawsuit that accused the Spanish Wells Club and its management of failing to uphold safety promises.

According to the legal complaint, the private community had publicly vowed to provide "on-site alligator risk management services" but allegedly made "no effort" to monitor local ponds.

The family argued that the defendants were aware that attacks were on the rise yet "woefully underestimated" the necessary safety measures.

"Residents reasonably relied upon defendants' representations and assurances that they were managing and reducing the risks posed by alligators," the filing stated.

The tragic incident was discovered by Mrs Jenkins' son, who found his mother face-down in a lagoon with a ten-foot alligator nearby.

Following the arrival of emergency services, the predator was killed; a subsequent necropsy confirmed the animal had consumed parts of the victim.

The community’s insurers stated the settlement was intended to "buy their peace" and avoid a lengthy trial. Mrs Jenkins was remembered in her obituary as a "devoted wife" and "loyal friend" who cherished her role as a grandmother.

While the settlement brings a close to the litigation, it highlights growing concerns regarding wildlife management in residential areas known for high alligator populations.