12-Foot Alligator Captured in Georgia McDonald’s Parking Lot After Two-Day Standoff

MACON, Ga. — A 12-foot alligator caused chaos outside a McDonald’s in Bibb County after lingering in the restaurant’s parking lot for two days before deputies and wildlife officials stepped in to capture and relocate it.

A Startling Discovery at the Drive-Thru

The reptile was first spotted on September 26 near the McDonald’s on Rocky Creek Road, where employees said it appeared to be watching customers pull into the drive-thru.

McDonald’s employee Mandy Jackson told 13WMAZ the gator remained nearby throughout the weekend. “It’s not going to be the first alligator, and it’s not going to be the last,” she said. “But I think the alligator is hungry!”

Bystanders Try to Intervene

As news spread, curious onlookers gathered, with some attempting to handle the gator themselves. Deputies reported that untrained individuals tried to duct tape the alligator’s mouth shut and even took selfies near the animal before authorities arrived.

Captain Linda Howard of the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office warned against such actions: “They decide they’re going to tape the gator’s mouth and take selfies — that’s very dangerous.”

Deputies and Wildlife Officers Step In

Video from CBS affiliate 13WMAZ showed deputies and wildlife officials restraining the alligator as it rolled violently across the asphalt. The team tied its jaws with rope and secured it for safe transport.

The animal was later moved to a private pond in Laurens County, far from populated areas.

No Injuries Reported

Authorities confirmed that no one was injured during the encounter and reminded the public that feeding, harassing, or attempting to capture alligators is illegal under Georgia law.

The unusual fast-food standoff has since drawn national attention, with many expressing shock that such a large reptile was found outside a McDonald’s in Georgia rather than Florida.

Have you ever encountered unexpected wildlife in your neighborhood or workplace? Share your stories in the comments on SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.