SUNSET BEACH, N.C. (WECT) – Sunset Beach Police Department officers responded to Las Palmeras Mexican Restaurant on Thursday, June 21, due to a five-foot alligator under a car.

Per the SBPD, Sgt. Harden and Animal Control Officer Arp handled the call with Officer Huddleston; both Harden and Arp are licensed with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission to remove nuisance alligators, and so this alligator was moved out of concern for the vehicle owner and the customers to a nearby pond.

“The Sunset Beach Police Department will not remove alligators simply because they find their way into yards and other populated locations. But in situations like yesterday’s incident, where risk to public safety is a factor, the alligator will be relocated. Alligators are protected under North Carolina State Law and are dangerous animals. Never approach an alligator or allow children near them. Alligators can move very quickly over short distances. Never feed alligators, feeding alligators teaches them that humans are sources of food, which could lead to injury or even death. Feeding alligators outside of captivity in North Carolina is prohibited by General Statute,” a SBPD announcement states.

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