Large alligator removed from Lufkin’s Jones Park Lake

LUFKIN, Texas (KTRE) - An 11-foot alligator was caught in the lake at Jones Park on Monday.

According to Lufkin City Councilman Robert Shankle, the alligator had been in the lake area for about two weeks.

The alligator’s presence was brought to city officials’ attention earlier this month, according to Jessica Pebsworth with the City of Lufkin. The alligator did not appear to fear humans, coming close to walking trails and the lakeshore..

“Anytime you have a large alligator like that, you fear that it may try to attack a child, as we know occurred at Disney World in 2016,” Animal Control Director Aaron Ramsey said.

A trapper from Texas Parks & Wildlife was called and removed the alligator unharmed.

“The alligator was taken to a farm in Trinity,” Ramsey said. “I’m happy no one was harmed, and that the alligator is also safe.”

Jones Lake and nearby Ellen Trout Lake are known to house alligators occasionally. Texas Parks & Wildlife is asked to intervene when the alligators become large enough to threaten humans.