FISHHAWK, Fla. — Hillsborough County deputies responded swiftly to a surprising start to the school day when a 9-foot alligator was found lounging in the parking lot of Fishhawk Early Learning Preschool.

Dubbed "Elvis" by deputies, the gator was spotted as families and staff arrived, prompting a quick response to ensure the safety of children moving between nearby buildings. Deputies directed foot traffic away from the area while waiting for a certified trapper to arrive.

With teamwork and coordination, the alligator was safely captured and relocated without incident.

“This king of the (swamp) jungle was safely removed,” the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office wrote on social media, thanking deputies and wildlife experts for their swift action.

Source: Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office