Kansas City Middle School Faces Fallout After Alligator Goes Missing

Authorities halt search for 14-inch alligator brought to school event without proper permits

The alligator, with its mouth taped shut, disappeared during a petting zoo event at Lakeview Middle School.
KC Pet Project and the Kansas City Fire Department led extensive search efforts but have now ceased active searching.
Thorni Ridge Exotics, the petting zoo company, claims the school was responsible for obtaining necessary permits.
The school district has informed parents and stressed there is no immediate threat to public safety.
Legal citations are being pursued against the involved parties for violations of local animal regulations.