The incident occurred when Sellakannu of Anaikarai had gone to bathe at Kollidam river last evening, they said.
All of a sudden, a crocodile pounced on him and dragged him deep into the water.
On hearing his cries, fishermen in the vicinity tried to rescue Sellakannu, but in vain.
Later, they fished out the body, which bore injuries on the neck, they added.
On receiving information, police rushed to the spot and conducted preliminary investigations.