Alligator Strikes Again
BY GEORGE WILLIAMS
MIAMI–An area family is agonizing over the gruesome disappearance of their daughter. The mother and child were walking on one of the primary nature trails into the Glades. Apparently, from what the officials can gather, the pair slipped off the beaten path to wash their hands in the water and that is when hell broke loose. An alligator, estimated at approximately 14 feet in length, lying in the marsh close to the trail, grabbed the child then hurried back into the marsh. The mother is listed in stable condition at an area hospital after surgery on her severed hand.
Area volunteers joined the Miami Police Department and Animal Control Officers in the search for the missing 7 year old. Local television helicopter crews have been sent in without cameras to join the search.
Officials are emphasizing the dangers of getting too close to these animals. “We are simply part of their food chain…they don’t see people, they see lunch…”. Area residents are reminded to stay on the trails, be aware of your surroundings, and never attempt to approach /any/ wild animals.
OLANA SPEAKS OUT TO THE PUBLIC
BY GEORGE WILLIAMS
MIAMI–Officer Riker T. Olana, with the Metropolitan Animal control office, issued the following statement to the public concerning the recent Alligator attacks. “I have noticed the recent rise of alligators venturing out of their habitats in the Everglades, west of the city. I am advising the citizens of Miami to, if possible, stay away from the Everglades. If it is not possible, absolutely avoid it at night, and never go alone. There have been two attacks by what I believe to be the same alligator. I don’t have much more evidence to this other than that both these attacks came from massive alligators approximately 10 feet long from head to tail, maybe longer. I chased one into the Glades myself, but I could not catch it, I’m sorry to say. Again, due to the recent alligator attacks in the glades, I am STRONGLY advising that everyone stay out of that area until we can make sure it’s at least somewhat safe. Alligators in general do not attack until they lose their fear of man. If you have to go in that area, stay in your vehicle. Parents, if you live out in that area, do not let your children out of your sight. Do not let them go out at night. Two attacks in two weeks means they are extremely dangerous. Animal control officers will attempt to bring the massive creature(s) in, and if we have to, euthanize them. But until then, please heed the warnings. And god bless.”
Officer Killed In The Line Of Duty
BY REGINA BROWN
MIAMI–What seems to have been a random robbery attempt ends in the death of one MPD officer. Two officers attempted to apprehend the perpetrators of a robbery at a local Stop’n Shop in Little Haiti Tuesday, and a scuffle ensued. Details of the robbery and what followed were not available at press time. We will relay more information as it is released. (See the Obituaries for service arrangements)