A 14-year-old was killed by crocodiles in front of his horrified family when he fell into a reptile infested canal.

Andres Alejandro Santana Hernandez was torn apart by the animals in the waterway in Lazaro Cardenas on Mexico’s Pacific coast.

The area is home to a large number of Morelet’s crocodiles, which are reportedly responsible for at least a dozen deaths.

After he fell into the water, the crocodiles attacked him before his parents could pull him out.

According to witnesses, the reptiles dragged him into a swamp and tore his body to pieces.

The tragic incident took place on July 18.

Police divers are working to recover what remains of his body.

The victim was an altar boy at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish and a member of the Cortazar Fire Department’s Marching Band.

The church said in a statement: “With deep sorrow, but with our hope placed in our Lord Jesus Christ, who has Risen and is the Lord of life, I earnestly ask you to join in prayer for the eternal rest of Andres Alejandro Santana Hernandez, altar server of the main parish, who has been called to the house of the Eternal Father.”

Cops and water safety officials are warning visitors to stay clear of the canal’s banks.

They add that the crocodiles can be “unpredictable”.

Morelet’s croc, also known as Crocodylus moreleti, can weigh around 400lbs and are speedy predators.

They are reportedly capable of overpowering cattle.

At least 12 human deaths are linked to this type of crocodile.

The teen’s death is currently subject to an investigation.