First responders discover six-foot-long alligator in Franklin County home

The homeowners had been keeping the alligator as a pet

First responders discover 6-foot-long alligator in Franklin County home (Franklin County, VA Department of Public Safety)

FRANKLIN COUNTY, Va. – Over the weekend, Franklin County first responders were greeted by an unexpected resident with scales.

While responding to a house fire, crews discovered Smiley, a six-foot-long alligator.

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The homeowners had been keeping Smiley as a pet for about 8 years, according to the Franklin County Public Safety Director Billy Ferguson.

The 12-year-old alligator was sent to a rescue group on Saturday and will be placed into a natural habitat after medical tests.


About the Author:

Jazmine Otey joined the 10 News team in February 2021.