A large alligator estimated to be 10 to 11 feet long was safely removed from State Highway 105 near the Trinity River bridge in Moss Hill early Wednesday morning after firefighters, law enforcement officers and Texas Department of Transportation crews worked together to guide the animal off the roadway.
At approximately 4 a.m. on Wednesday, June 17, Liberty County ESD 7 (Hardin Volunteer Fire Department) and Tarkington Volunteer Fire Department responded to assist TxDOT with an alligator that was blocking the eastbound side of SH 105 just east of the Trinity River bridge.
According to Jacob Cantu, second assistant chief for Hardin VFD (Liberty County ESD 7), the alligator was stretched across both the main travel lane and shoulder, creating a hazard for motorists.
“We were asked to manipulate the alligator with water to encourage it to get off the highway before it would be struck by a passing vehicle,” Cantu said.
TxDOT employees fashioned a makeshift lasso from a heavy-duty strap while firefighters used water streams to encourage the reptile to move. Together, they were able to guide the alligator safely off the roadway without injury.
Laci Pierce, who responded with Hardin VFD and serves as a school resource officer for Hardin ISD, said responders initially attempted to use a rescue truck but found the water pressure was insufficient.
“We started with a rescue truck, but the water pressure wasn’t enough, so we had to use a deck gun on the tanker and we were able to relocate him,” Pierce said.
The Liberty County Sheriff’s Office also responded to the scene and assisted by blocking traffic while crews worked to clear the roadway.
Cantu said the Trinity River is currently elevated, causing some wildlife to become displaced from their normal habitat.
He noted that killing the alligator was considered only as a last resort and said responders were pleased to avoid that outcome.
“We were happy to avoid that end for the animal,” Cantu said.
Cantu also urged motorists to remain alert, noting that alligator activity has increased in recent weeks.
In recent weeks, he has observed two other alligators killed after being struck by vehicles. One was found west of the Trinity River bridge on SH 105 in Moss Hill, and another was on SH 146 near Mont Belvieu.
“They are moving at this time. Be on the lookout,” Cantu said.
No injuries were reported, and the alligator safely returned to the nearby river area.