Rescued alligator, Neo, dies in fire at Allegheny County reptile shelter
Neo, an alligator that was discovered in Kiski earlier this month, died in a fire that occurred around 4 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 26, according to the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office.
Nate’s Reptile Rescue, a state-licensed animal rescue in South Park Township, was home to about 100 exotic animals, including snakes, turtles and alligators.
No humans were injured in the fire, but a number of animals did not escape the blaze, the sheriff’s office said. The number of animals that died has not yet been determined.
Armstrong County humane officer Amber Phillips was able to confirm 11 gators, 14 red eared slider turtles and “some turtles and snakes” survived.
Phillips confirmed Chomper, an alligator rescued from the Kiski River in August, survived.
Mike Manko, communications manager for the sheriff’s office, said deputy Steve Costello noticed the building at the intersection of Brownsville and McCorkle roads was ablaze just before 4 p.m.
The Allegheny County fire marshal is investigating.
In an interview last month, the owner of Nate’s Reptile Rescue, Nate Lysaght said the shelter was housing 15 alligators, including Neo and Chomper.
Lysaght could not be reached for comment on Tuesday.
Champion's Crusaders Rescue in Armstrong County is accepting donations on behalf of Nate’s Reptile Rescue.
“Gift cards to reptile stores would be in the best interest,” Phillips said. “(Lysaght) lost everything, he is devastated.”
To make a donation to Nate’s Reptile Rescue visit https://championscrusaidersrescue.org. Phillips asked donors to include “Nate’s Reptile Rescue” in the subject line of any donations.
