An alligator was spotted near swimmers in Erie, Pennsylvania on Sunday, prompting authorities to investigate the reptile’s origins and whereabouts. (Courtesy of Christina Roach via Storyful)
On Sunday, what appeared to be an alligator was spotted near swimmers in Erie, Pennsylvania, and authorities began investigating the reptile’s origins and whereabouts.
Videos show images of the animal rocking and splashing on the surface of the water.
Christina Roach, who shot the video, was visiting Lake Erie with her family. She talked about the moment she found out about the alligator.
ALLIGATOR SEALED SWIMMING THROUGH FLOOD WATERS OFF DEBBY IN SOUTH CAROLINA
“After about an hour of swimming, a man came running and yelled for us to get out of the water and pointed at the alligator,” she said. “I immediately yelled for our children to get out of the water.”
An alligator was reported.
(Christina Roach via Storyful/FOX Weather)
Roach added that she had informed authorities about the incident.
According to local reports, the Erie Port Authority has contacted a trapper about catching the alligator.
“We’re really asking the public to contact us if you saw anything,” said Julie Slomsk, executive director of the Erie Port Authority. “If anyone knows of someone who may have released this alligator into the water, we’d love to talk to that person.”
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There are now signs in the area warning the public about the alligator in the water.
