Parents of Toddler Killed By Alligator Break Silence After Disney Tragedy

The parents of a two-year-old boy who was snatched from a Florida beach by an alligator have spoken out for the first time since their tragic loss. As guests at Disney’s five-star Grand Floridian Resort & Spa enjoyed an open-air movie, Lane Graves was playing in the shallow water with his sister (4) under the supervision of their parents, Melissa and Matt Graves when the animal attacked. His body was recovered from the water 16 hours later. Orange County Medical Examiner's Office confirmed the cause of death as drowning and traumatic injuries. In a statement, the Graves family said:

“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. To all of the local authorities and staff who worked tirelessly these past 24 hours, we express our deepest gratitude."

All beaches at Disney's Orlando resorts have been closed following the tragedy. Meanwhile, a senior source revealed to CNN that alligator warning signs are to be erected near all the waterways at Walt Disney World resorts as soon as possible to ensure all guests are aware of the danger wild alligators potentially pose to small children. Orange County Sheriff Jerry Demings highlighted that police have no reason to believe the child's parents were neglectful in any way: “There’s nothing in this case to indicate that there was anything extraordinary” in terms of neglect by the parents, he said.

Deepest condolences to the Graves family. Thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/nXaRrgjLhl

— OCSO FL News (@OrangeCoSheriff) June 16, 2016

The President of the Walt Disney World Resort, George Kalogridis, also made a statement, saying "There are no words to convey the profound sorrow we feel for the family and their unimaginable loss," Image: ABC7 News This article originally appeared on HerFamily.ie