Breaking News: 13 Teenagers Attacked by Crocodiles at Lake Gaston — Three Men Also Involved

May 29, 2025 — Lake Gaston, Virginia/North Carolina Border

In a terrifying and highly unusual event, 13 teenagers have reportedly been attacked by crocodiles this afternoon at Lake Gaston, a popular recreational area straddling the Virginia-North Carolina border. The incident is believed to have involved three adult men who were accompanying the group at the time. Emergency services are currently on the scene.

According to eyewitnesses, the teenagers — believed to be part of a youth group or summer outing — were swimming and paddleboarding near a cove when at least two large crocodiles emerged from the water and began attacking. Multiple screams were heard across the lake as chaos unfolded, prompting nearby boaters to rush in and assist.

“We heard this horrible splashing and screaming,” said local fisherman Robert Hensley. “At first we thought it was a prank or something, but then we saw what looked like a massive crocodile dragging someone. It was like something out of a nightmare.”

Authorities have not confirmed how crocodiles came to be in Lake Gaston, which is not a natural habitat for the species. Local wildlife experts suggest the animals may have been illegally released or escaped from a private collection. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources are launching a joint investigation.

As of this report, local EMS has confirmed that at least seven teenagers have been hospitalized, two in critical condition with serious bite wounds. The remaining six are being treated for non-life-threatening injuries including lacerations and shock. The condition of the three adult men is currently unknown, though some reports suggest one of them was injured while trying to fight off a crocodile using an oar.

Emergency crews have cordoned off the lake and are warning all residents and visitors to stay out of the water until further notice. Wildlife officers are deploying sonar and traps to capture or neutralize any remaining threats. Boating, fishing, and all recreational activities have been suspended indefinitely.

“This is a tragic and highly unusual event,” said Sgt. Linda Marlowe of the North Carolina State Police. “Lake Gaston has never seen anything like this. We are doing everything we can to ensure the safety of the public and determine how these dangerous animals got here.”

Families of the victims have gathered at local hospitals and staging areas, many in visible distress. School officials from nearby counties are assisting with family notifications and emergency counseling.

Lake Gaston, a man-made reservoir known for its calm waters and summer tourism, is not known to host any crocodile populations — making this incident even more mysterious and alarming.

This is a developing story. More updates will follow as information is confirmed and rescue and recovery operations continue.