L.A.’s Infamous Reggie the Alligator Captured!

Here’s the official LAFD Incident Report, probably one of the funnier ones I’ve read. I have omitted all the specs and got right to the juicy stuff. You can also read the complete story here.

CHICKEN + DUCT TAPE = REGGIE

On Thursday, May 24, 2007 at 3:27 PM, 2 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 1 LAFD Rescue Ambulance, 1 Battalion Chief Officer Command Team, Park Rangers, Animal Regulations, Rec and Parks, Fish and Game and Councilwoman Hahn, all responded to an Animal Assist at 25820 S. Vermont Av. in the Harbor City area.

Apparently, an Alligator had been seen sunbathing in a cordoned off area of the Ken Mallory Regional Park over the last three weeks. The “gator” had no intentions of leaving this “well catered” area, today, dining on a whole chicken. Joggers found the “gator” sunning after the exquisite meal, and put in a call to the office of Janice Hahn. Councilwoman Hahn just happened to be meeting with representatives from the Zoo, Animal Regulations and Rec and Parks, discussing the possible capture of “Reggie” the following week! Meeting adjourned ! A 911 call was made for the “experts.”

All was a buzz at the OCD Dispatch Center after receiving the 911 call to “assist Animal Regulations in the capture of an alligator.” Once on scene, Fire Department resources observed two Park Rangers trying to subdue a very large alligator. Calling for the use of technical equipment, a roll of duct tape, the animals snout and tail were secured, much to his disapproval. With much hissing, most likely upset for leaving the other half of that chicken, the “gator” was packaged up utilizing the durable plastic SKED stretcher, part of the SKED rescue system for confined space or technical rescues. Fire personnel facilitated the transport of the alligator to the Animal Regulations vehicle, which then transported him to the L.A. Zoo. Having reached Rock Star status, “Reggie” arrived at the L.A. Zoo, complete with cheering section and entourage.

Who needs “alligator wranglers” and so called “gator experts” to capture “Reggie” when you have the men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department and also save a couple bucks!

And before I end this post, I’d like to add that this all happened across the street from the hospital where I was born (Harbor City, CA). It’s L.A. County, but definitely not L.A.

Here’s a picture of the signs posted at the park, courtesy of my brother who still lives in the area. Note my updates.

It’s been fun, Reggie!