Footage shows crocodile caught under ute at croc-infested Cahills Crossing

A dramatic encounter between a ute and a large crocodile at one of Australia’s busiest croc crossings has grabbed the attention of nearly four million viewers online.

The video, shot at Cahills Crossing in Kakadu National Park, shows the crocodile getting stuck under the vehicle as it crosses the shallow East Alligator River. It was posted on TikTok and Facebook by Matteo Mastratisi and quickly went viral.

Cahills Crossing is notorious for its dense crocodile population and unpredictable, fast-changing conditions. The narrow, submerged causeway cuts through the East Alligator River, which is home to some of the highest concentrations of saltwater crocodiles in the country.

Despite repeated warnings and visible signage, both locals and tourists are often drawn to the crossing – whether out of necessity or curiosity – and many underestimate just how quickly things can go wrong. Incidents like this serve as a clear reminder of the serious risks posed to both drivers and wildlife in remote parts of the Top End.

The driver was reportedly unaware the crocodile was beneath the vehicle, and experts told the ABC they would be surprised if the animal sustained any lasting injuries.

Authorities keep stressing caution around the crossing, where encounters between vehicles and saltwater crocodiles happen regularly – especially in the dry season when water levels drop and visibility is poor.

Last year, a family caused outrage when they were filmed fishing and letting a small child play just metres from the water’s edge – despite plenty of warning signs and large crocs nearby. The footage, captured by a local tour operator, underlined just how dangerous complacency at Cahills Crossing can be.

Crocodile safety in northern Australia means always assuming crocs are near any water source, camping at least 50 metres from the water’s edge, avoiding walking close to the water at night, and planning river crossings and campsites carefully to avoid close encounters.