Alligator Discovered and Killed Outside of Gate City, Va.

A Virginia Department of Inland Games and Fisheries spokesperson reports that an American alligator that got loose near Gate City, VA was killed by wildlife officials.

An overnight search in the Big Mocassin Creek area located the animal. Because of its size and threat to the public, wildlife officials shot the alligator.

An investigation is currently being conducted and the department has spoken to the owner of the four foot creature.

A permit is required to own an alligator in Virginia. As of now no charges have been filed.