Alligator caught swimming near shore in Myrtle Beach by lifeguards, cops

Alligator caught swimming near shore in Myrtle Beach by lifeguards, cops

Myrtle Beach, SC — A surprise visitor turned heads on the sand Tuesday when a 2.5-foot alligator was spotted swimming in the surf just off one of Myrtle Beach’s popular tourist areas, prompting a response from lifeguards and police officers.

The reptile, described as “a little out of his depth” by Myrtle Beach police, was wrangled and safely relocated away from beachgoers, businesses, and homes after being spotted by Officer PFC Lively, who also managed to snap a photo with the gator before its rescue.

Officers worked with local lifeguards to ensure the alligator didn’t pose a risk to the public. Authorities did not say where exactly the gator came from or how it ended up in the ocean, but the presence of freshwater reptiles along the coast is not entirely uncommon during the warmer months.

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The Myrtle Beach Police Department reminded residents and visitors not to approach or disturb wild animals that appear sick, injured, or out of place and instead to call the city’s non-emergency line to report wildlife concerns.

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Key Points

  • A 2.5-foot alligator was found swimming near the beach in Myrtle Beach and safely relocated
  • Local lifeguards and police officers responded quickly to remove the animal from the tourist area
  • Officials remind public to report displaced wildlife to authorities and not to approach them

A beach day took a wild turn when a small alligator made waves near the shoreline.

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