Southport, N.C. – On the afternoon of Oct. 29, a three‑foot alligator found its way into Bagel Dock Express, a popular local bagel shop on the city’s waterfront. The reptile entered through an open back door while workers were installing a new oven, and it made its way through the kitchen toward the front counter.
Owner’s reaction captured on surveillance
Surveillance footage shows owner Jesse Driscoll spotting the alligator and immediately backing away. “It’s just so far out of the ordinary for a bagel shop,” Driscoll told WWAY News, noting that the shop was closed to customers at the time. He quickly called 911, and Southport Police Department officers arrived alongside an Animal Protective Services officer to secure the scene.
Law enforcement safely removes the visitor
Police confirmed on Facebook that officers worked with Animal Protective Services Officer Ward to capture the alligator and relocate it to a safe area away from the public. No injuries were reported, and the incident concluded without drama.
Bagel shop jokes about the unusual customer
Bagel Dock Express posted a light‑hearted message on its Facebook page, joking that the shop’s fresh bagels had apparently “made its way into the swamp.” The caption read: “Our surprise visitor was safely escorted out by local law enforcement. No injuries, no drama… just one VERY unusual customer! Fresh bagels. Wild experiences.”
Not the first alligator sighting in Southport this year
This encounter follows two other alligator incidents in the area earlier in 2026. In April, officers removed a 12‑foot alligator from a residential property, and another alligator was found beneath a car at a bank drive‑through.
Community response
Residents expressed a mix of amusement and concern, with many sharing the video and commenting on social media. Local wildlife officials reminded the public that alligators are native to the region’s wetlands and that proper fencing and door security can help prevent future intrusions.
Southport’s police department continues to monitor wildlife activity near the city’s waterways, emphasizing public safety while respecting the natural habitat of the area’s native species.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
