Gator(s), Hindrance, and Investigation

Good Morning, Leland, Winnabow, Belville and more! Welcome to the first official Monday of Summer! In today’s LLLLeland:

• Alligator Attacks Dog and Lives To Tell the Story

• Delays for Water Treatment Plant Explained

• Leland Home Explosion is NOT Gas. Now What?

THE NEWS

Alligator Attacks Dog and Lives To Tell the Story

A Southport man, Bonner Herring, risked his life to save his dog, Strike, from a large alligator in his family’s pond. After letting Strike outside while working in the garden, Herring heard a distressing cry and a splash, immediately realizing his dog was under attack. Armed with only a rake, he ran to the water and jumped in, despite the depth and danger.

He found Strike in the gator's grasp and managed to free him, carrying the injured dog back to shore while the alligator re-emerged and threatened them. Both survived the encounter. Strike suffered a broken leg and was treated at a veterinary clinic. Herring later admitted the emotional toll of the event and acknowledged that his actions, while instinctive, went against expert advice.

He cautioned others not to do the same, emphasizing how dangerous alligator encounters can be. Wildlife officials reminded residents to be vigilant and follow “GatorWise” safety guidelines, especially near ponds or lakes. (WWAY)

Delays for Water Treatment Plant Explained

Five years after construction began, Brunswick County’s reverse osmosis water treatment project—intended to remove harmful forever chemicals (PFAs) from the water supply—remains unfinished, with no clear completion date in sight.

Despite earlier estimates projecting completion by the end of 2024 or spring 2025, county leaders recently admitted that major components of the system, including the filters and chlorine room, are still incomplete. County Manager Steve Stone expressed frustration and placed most of the blame on the contractor, Oscar Renda Contracting, noting that recent delays were not justifiable.

The contractor now owes $3.9 million in penalties for missing deadlines. Residents, concerned about their water quality, have begun purchasing bottled water and filtration systems. While there’s growing public skepticism about whether the project will ever be completed, Stone stressed that the county remains committed and will not abandon the effort.

The contractor has been directed to submit a revised project schedule within a month, which county officials hope will present a credible path to completion. If the schedule appears realistic, Stone plans to share it with the public. (WECT)

Leland Home Explosion is NOT Gas. Now What?

Officials have ruled out liquefied petroleum (LP) gas as the cause of the May 16 home explosion in Leland, following tests that showed all gas regulators and lines were functioning properly. The on-site investigation at the Suncrest Way property in the Magnolia Greens neighborhood is now complete, and the property has been turned over to the management company.

Investigators have sent collected evidence to labs for further analysis, with results expected in several weeks. Homes affected by the blast remain unsafe and are still fenced off. The Town of Leland continues to work closely with partner agencies and private investigators, and further updates will be provided as new information emerges. (WECT)

Another Gator Story - Sunset Beach

An 8-foot alligator caused a stir at Sunset Beach when it entered the ocean near 10th Street around 1:47 PM this past Thursday. Sergeant Gray responded to the scene and safely removed the alligator using a catch pole, ensuring the safety of nearby beachgoers who had gathered to watch and take photos. The alligator was later relocated to a nearby pond following standard procedures.

Sergeant Gray, certified by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, also took time to educate the public about alligator safety. Officials reminded the community that alligators are protected under state law and should never be approached or fed, as this can lead to dangerous behavior. Residents are urged to contact the Sunset Beach Police Department or call 911 if an alligator poses a threat. (Facebook)

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

Magic Show at Leland Library Today

Join Award Winning Magician and Storyteller Dana Hill this afternoon at 3:00 PM at the Leland Library as he uses fun and illusions to take you on an adventure with books as your guide. Preschool-Grade 5.

The Leland Library is located at 487 Village Road NE.

Trivia Night at Gio Fund Event Center Tonight

Trivia Night will take place at the Gio Fund Event Center, located at 117 Village Road, Unit E, in Leland, NC. The event begins at 6:30 PM tonight, with the bar opening at 5:00 PM. There is no cover charge to attend.

Poker Games Tonight at Brunswick Beer XChange

The World Tavern Poker League takes place every Monday with two free, live poker tournaments at 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Players can compete for points, prizes, and the opportunity to qualify for the Tavern, Regional, and National Championships, where over $100,000 in prizes are awarded annually. It's a fun and competitive way to enjoy a night out. Registration is available at www.WorldTavernPoker.com. BBX is located at 113 Village Road in Leland.

Do you have an event? Reach out to us! community@livelaughloveleland.com

WEATHER

Monday

96 🌡️ 75 | ⛅ | 10% | 🌬️ WSW 8 mph | Humidity 55%

Tuesday

95 🌡️ 77 | ⛅ | 20% | 🌬️ NE 7 mph | Humidity 55%

Thank you for taking the time to read this issue of Live, Laugh, Love Leland!

Forward this to a friend and ask that they sign-up! Have ideas, suggestions or comments? Send them to community@livelaughloveleland.com

See you tomorrow!