Search Underway for Missing Alligator from Kansas City Middle School

A 14-inch alligator with its mouth taped shut escaped from a petting zoo at Lakeview Middle School, prompting a search by local authorities.

The alligator, part of an end-of-year celebration, was last seen around 11 a.m. Thursday.
KC Pet Project and the Kansas City Fire Department are leading the search efforts.
The school did not obtain the required permit for the petting zoo, leading to potential citations.
Residents are urged to report any sightings to KC Pet Project's 24-hour phone line.
The alligator is not a threat to the public but may not survive long without food or water.