8-foot alligator spotted on Sunset Beach

SUNSET BEACH, NC (WWAY) — Sunset Beach Police were dispatched just after 1:45 p.m. Thursday afternoon to 10th Street after beachgoers saw an 8-foot gator going in and out of the surf.

A police sergeant licensed through the NC wildlife resources commission arrived and quickly took action to ensure the safety of beachgoers.

using a catch pole, he safely removed the gator from the water, before relocating him to a nearby pond.

Alligators are protected under North Carolina state law.

If you see an alligator that appears to be endangering human life or its own safety, please contact the Sunset Beach Police Department to evaluate the situation. Always call 911 if immediate assistance is needed.