US: Deputy Confronts 7 Foot Alligator Blocking Busy Tampa Highway During Mating Season.

Tampa, United States - April 28, 2026 [WARNING: violent content] Video filmed by X user HCSO shows an Axon Body 4 bodycam recording of a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s deputy calmly dealing with a 7-foot alligator lying in the middle of North Dale Mabry Highway on the afternoon of April 28, 2026. The large reptile is stretched across the asphalt, stopping traffic as the deputy explains the situation, saying, “Right now, we got a gator that’s sitting in the middle of our roadway who looks a little unhappy with us and probably everyone around here.” While managing multiple tasks, the deputy directs halted vehicles, keeps bystanders and pedestrians at a safe distance along the sidewalk, and uses a long pole to carefully guide the animal off the roadway toward a landscaped median with brick planters and greenery. A licensed trapper arrives shortly after to assist. Together, they secure the alligator on the pavement before safely removing and relocating it. No injuries were reported to either people or the animal. The incident occurred at the start of alligator mating season in Florida, when the reptiles become more active and often wander into urban areas and roadways. The deputy’s composed handling of the situation on one of Tampa’s major roads prevented any potential danger or accidents. The footage was shared by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office on April 30 with the caption “Another Day in Florida When your ‘suspect’ is 7 feet long and comes with 80 very sharp teeth… you call in backup.”