A New Jersey woman discovered a 3-foot python lodged in the front grille of her car after returning from a wheel alignment on September 14 in Franklin Township. Aiyana Hudson called the police for assistance, and responding officers were shown in body camera footage inspecting the car and attempting to determine how to safely remove the snake.
Officer Lisseth Villacis explained that the police initially contacted animal control, but were informed that the agency only handles domesticated animals. The officers then took matters into their own hands, dismantling part of the vehicle, including the front bumper, to reach the trapped reptile. After about 20 minutes, the snake was successfully untangled and freed.
The snake, identified as a 3-foot ball python, was unharmed and taken to the Franklin Township Animal Shelter. Hudson expressed relief that the unexpected passenger did not cause any harm while she was driving. The circumstances surrounding how the python ended up in the grille remain unclear.
The incident has prompted a reminder from Franklin Township Public Safety Director Lloyd Fredericks that releasing exotic pets into the wild is illegal and can pose a threat to native wildlife and household pets. Residents who can no longer care for their pet snakes are encouraged to surrender them to the township animal shelter.
The snake is now in the care of the Franklin Township Animal Shelter, where it will be available for adoption.
NTC Report coverage is based on reporting from the original publisher.
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