Alligator Stops Traffic On US 59 Near Cleveland

CLEVELAND, TX — Motorists traveling on Interstate 69 in Cleveland found themselves doing a double-take at the 12-foot alligator seen hanging out near the east fork of the San Jacinto River bridge Monday morning.

The gator wandered out to the middle of the freeway at about 2:30 a.m., and blocked traffic until Cleveland police and a professional alligator wrangler could capture the beast and take him to a natural habitat.

Chance Ward, the lucky alligator wrangler called by police, was awakened to come out and safely remove the creature that Ward has nicknamed George.

According to a KPRC report, George is believed to be about 50 years old and may have sauntered out looking for a little bit of companionship since it’s almost mating season.

Meanwhile, Ward and members of the Cleveland Police Department were able to strap George to Ward’s flatbed and safely remove the gator off the roadway.

George will be moved to a safe location later today.

Image: Suzanna Ruby/Shutterstock

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