Alligator missing after petting zoo brought it to Kansas City school

Lina PortmanMay 29, 2024

0 1 minute read

Animal Services was called to find a missing alligator Thursday at an event at a Kansas City high school and the agency said the school did not have the necessary permits to have animals at the event.

The middle school is called Lakeview Middle, according to KCTV.

The KC Pet Project Animal Services Division posted about the alligator on Facebook Thursday evening and said a petting zoo brought the 14-inch alligator to the school. Her mouth is taped shut and was last seen around 11 a.m. Thursday morning, the division said.

“Lakeview Middle School did not obtain an animal exhibit permit from our Animal Services Division for the petting zoo, which is required by Chapter 14 of the city code,” said KC Pet Project in his message. “Officers… searched the school and surrounding grounds for the animal on the school grounds for several hours, but were unable to locate the animal. »

The division emphasized that alligators are not allowed in Kansas City, per Chapter 14 of the city code. Animal Services plans to release citations, the post read.

KC Pet Project also thanked the Kansas City Fire Department for their assistance in the search for the animal.

They ask anyone with information to call (816) 683-1373 or submit tips at www.tinyurl.com/KCPPForm.

Saleen Martin is a reporter on USA TODAY's NOW team. She's from Norfolk, Virginia – 757. Follow her on Twitter at@SaleenMartin or send him an email at[email protected].