Cuban Influencer Under Investigation for Shooting an Alligator in Florida: The Controversial Incident Unveiled

A livestreamed video from the Everglades has thrust a Cuban influencer, known for creating wildlife content in Florida, into the spotlight for all the wrong reasons.

The footage, which quickly spread across social media platforms, captures a group of young men repeatedly shooting at a seemingly lifeless alligator. This act is now the subject of an investigation by state authorities.

As reported by El Nuevo Herald, the event took place last Thursday when content creator Braden Peters, also known as "Clavicular," was on an airboat with friends, including Cuban influencer Andrew Mora, who goes by the name "Cuban Tarzan" online.

During the video, Peters engages with his audience while eyeing the reptile, asking, "Is it dead?" without taking his gaze from the front camera of his phone.

He then adds, "So can we shoot it?" At another moment, he insists, "We need to check if it's dead."

Next to him, Mora jokingly comments, "He just wants to shoot something… his trigger finger is itching."

Shortly thereafter, with apparent approval from the pilot—"You can pretty much do whatever you want"—both proceed to fire over 25 rounds at the alligator.

The video sparked immediate public backlash and led to the involvement of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), which confirmed it was looking into the matter.

"FWC officers are investigating the incident and will provide additional information as soon as it becomes available," the agency stated on social media.

State law is explicit: harassing or killing alligators is prohibited unless under specific, licensed circumstances during regulated seasons.

If found guilty of a violation, those involved could face legal repercussions.

Political Response and Public Opinion

Political figures also weighed in on the incident. Florida's Lieutenant Governor, Jay Collins, was unequivocal in his condemnation: "Florida's wildlife and waterways deserve respect, not exploitation for content creation."

He continued, "Under my watch, anyone mistreating wildlife in the state will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. I hope charges are brought against those who brazenly disregard our laws."

The case has divided social media audiences. While some users defended the action, claiming the animal was already dead and celebrated the act with terms like "mogging"—signifying dominance—others demanded severe penalties.

From Viral Sensation to Scrutinized Figure

The controversy also envelops Andrew Mora, widely recognized as the "Cuban Tarzan," who has amassed a significant following with videos of his interactions with Florida's wildlife.

Previously, his public image was tied to viral content showcasing him capturing iguanas, diving into canals, or handling reptiles in natural settings.

One of his most popular videos, with over 19 million views, features him emerging from water with two iguanas, exclaiming, "They almost got away!"

Based in South Florida, Mora has built a community of millions of followers with a style that combines adrenaline, spectacle, and direct engagement with local fauna.

In past posts, he has defended his activities, particularly concerning iguana capture—an invasive species—asserting, "I don't do it for fame or money, I do it because iguanas are destroying the vegetation and I want to do my part."

This narrative, centered on environmental utility and respect for nature, now clashes with the images from the Everglades, where the action was neither part of species control nor regulated practices.

A Pattern of Controversies

The alligator incident is not the only controversy surrounding those involved. Peters, for instance, has previously been embroiled in disputes, including his presence at a Miami Beach nightclub playing Kanye West's "Heil Hitler" and a recent arrest for minor assault charges stemming from a conflict between his girlfriend and another content creator.

However, it's the alligator video that has drawn the most institutional concern, as it potentially constitutes an environmental crime broadcasted live to a wide audience.

The Fine Line Between Entertainment and Law

This case reignites the debate on the boundaries 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 for responsible action.

As the investigation progresses, the spotlight on the "Cuban Tarzan" shifts to accountability in an environment where the line between entertainment and crime can be perilously thin.