Police Seek Story Behind The Snake
Owner, relatives of reptile sought
By Dan McFeely
Did the giant Burmese python, found dead in White River, have a brother that might still be swimming around?
Hamilton County authorities hope not. But until they can trace the origin of the 19-foot snake found this week, the search for its owner -- and any relatives -- will continue. "
We're not looking at trying to charge anyone with anything," said Sgt. Jon T. Robison of the Hamilton County Sheriff's Department. "
But we are most concerned about public safety."
Canoeists found the python near a public park and across the street from a campground north of Noblesville. A local snake seller said Thursday that it's possible the snake had been dumped earlier this year and was living in the river. It may have been struck by a boat, based on red marks reportedly found on its neck.
The snake's body was found in the Strawtown area, not far from Koteewi Park and the White River Campgrounds -- which has police concerned.
"
These are areas with kids, pets and people swimming in the river," said Robison. "
We are checking with exotic pet shops and others to see if they know of anyone around here who had a python."
Tony Weber, owner of the Pet Jungle at 106th Street and Michigan Road in Carmel, said he sells 50 to 100 pythons and boa constrictors every year, but he has not heard of any python owners losing their pets lately. "
But it was somebody's pet, obviously," said Weber. "
Who knows how long it had been there (in the river)?"
Weber, whose store specializes in snakes and other reptiles, said it's possible for a python and other non-native snakes to survive in the river, at least until winter, when the cold climate would be fatal. Pythons sell for about $110. Pet Jungle has an adult female, 12 feet long and weighing 85 pounds, for sale.
"
Snakes make good pets," said Weber. "
There are lots of them around."
Police Seek Story Behind The Snake
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