Police Reunite Snake with South Orange Owner

A South Orange owner has stepped forward to claim a snake found nearly four miles away in Millburn. 

The four-foot male python was found curled up in the corner of the garage at about 11 a.m. on Saturday, and the owner could not be found in the vicinity.

Police said Tuesday the owner confirmed the snake as his through a series of photos and through other investigative means. The owner lives in South Orange 3.8 miles away from where the snake was found.

Police believe the snake got out of the owner's cage and made his way a short distance to the east branch of the Rahway River. The snake either swam or was swept downstream in the currents before making its way out of the river and going into the Greenwood Drive home near the river.

Police said the snake's owner was instructed as per New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Law Enforcement Division to obtain the needed permit for ownership.  The snake's owner, whose name is not being released, told police he was on vacation for the last week and found out a few days ago his reptile had slid away from his home.  The owner found out the Millburn Police Department had found a snake from the numerous news reports.

Officer Michael Tichenor, who had secured the snake, has been caring for it at Millburn Police Headquarters.