Lafayette, Louisiana: Alligator Rescued from Downtown Pool

Lafayette, Louisiana: Alligator Rescued from Downtown PoolLafayette, Louisiana: Alligator Rescued from Downtown Pool Lafayette Animal Control was called to action on Monday afternoon after an unexpected visitor found itself in a downtown pool. A fully-grown American alligator was spotted swimming in the pool located at the end of Jefferson Street. Witnesses alerted authorities after spotting the reptile in the water. Officers arrived on scene and quickly cordoned off the area to ensure public safety. Animal Control officers, assisted by local firefighters, carefully approached the alligator and used a long pole to gently encourage it out of the pool. The animal, which measured approximately 6 feet in length, was successfully captured and secured in a crate. Lt. Matt Dowling of the Lafayette Police Department remarked, “This is certainly not something we encounter every day. Thankfully, no one was injured, and the alligator is now in safe hands.” The captured alligator was transported to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) for further evaluation and relocation. LDWF officials believe the animal may have wandered from a nearby creek or bayou into the downtown area. “Alligators are common in Louisiana, but it’s unusual to find one in an urban setting like this,” said LDWF spokesperson Adam Einck. “We’re grateful to the Lafayette Police and Animal Control for handling the situation quickly and professionally.” The incident serves as a reminder to residents and visitors that alligators are protected wildlife and should be respected and left alone. If an alligator is spotted in an area where it poses a risk to people or property, it should be reported to local authorities immediately. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries provides guidelines for living safely with alligators: * Never feed alligators. Feeding them makes them associate humans with food and can lead to dangerous interactions. * Keep your distance and do not approach alligators. * Secure trash cans and pet food indoors to avoid attracting alligators. * Swim in designated areas and avoid swimming near areas where alligators may be present. * If an alligator approaches, do not run or turn your back. Instead, back away slowly while keeping an eye on the animal. * Report any alligator sightings or interactions to local authorities or the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.