Alligator Slinks Into Detroit, Grandfather Who Finds It Runs Away 'Like Jesse Owens'

Detroit, MI — Here's something you don't hear every day: Animal control officials in Detroit were called Wednesday to deal with an alligator who was on the loose.

The two-foot-long alligator, which authorities said was likely someone’s pet, was found on Strathmoor Street, near Interstate 96 and Hubbell Avenue, according to media reports, including WDIV-TV.

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The backyard where the alligator was discovered is normally filled with children and pets, the TV station reported.

Alligator found in backyard of home on Detroit's west side https://t.co/4Vgys6zSVT #Local4 pic.twitter.com/6bpCfn1Daq
— Local 4 WDIV Detroit (@Local4News) June 15, 2016

T.J. Boyd told the TV station his grandfather discovered the gator.

It’s unclear who owns the reptile, but don’t be surprised if they don’t step forward. Alligators are considered dangerous animals, and it’s illegal to possess them.

Image: Stock photo of alligator by Vilde Lauritzen via Flickr, licensed under Creative Commons