Wally, a Michigan family’s 21-year-old pet alligator, was fatally hit by a truck Thursday after escaping from his pen, investigators said.

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Lansing drivers told WILX they saw a 5-foot reptile's carcass on the side of the road.

Investigators said Wally had escaped from his home, WLNS reported.

Because they are not indigenous to Michigan, alligators can legally be pets. Native animals, like raccoons, require a permit to own, WLNS reported.

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Morning travelers make their way through Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport amid the ongoing government shutdown. Monday, Oct. 27, 2025 (Ben Hendren for the AJC)

Credit: Ben Hendren