Alligator Seized on Bourbon Street During Carnival in New Orleans

Wildlife agents arrested a man carrying a 4-foot alligator on the famous street.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries agents seized a live 4-foot alligator from a 25-year-old man who was walking down Bourbon Street in New Orleans in the early hours of Valentine's Day. The man, Eurell D. Johnson, was arrested and charged with being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, illegal possession of marijuana, and possession of a live alligator.

Why it matters

Bourbon Street and the French Quarter in New Orleans are major tourist attractions, especially during the annual Carnival celebrations leading up to Mardi Gras. The presence of a live alligator on the busy street raises concerns about public safety and the enforcement of wildlife laws in the area.

The details

According to the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Department Enforcement Division, agents were patrolling the French Quarter when they saw Johnson walking down the 400 block of Bourbon Street with the 4-foot alligator around 1:30 a.m. on February 14, 2026. The agents seized the alligator and turned it over to a wildlife department biologist. Johnson was booked into the Orleans Parish jail and faces potential fines and jail time if convicted of the charges.

  • The incident occurred in the early hours of Valentine's Day, February 14, 2026.

The players

Eurell D. Johnson

A 25-year-old man from New Roads, Louisiana who was arrested for carrying a live alligator on Bourbon Street.

Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Department Enforcement Division

The state agency responsible for enforcing wildlife laws, whose agents seized the alligator and arrested the suspect.

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What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Eurell D. Johnson to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for stricter enforcement of wildlife laws and public safety measures during major events and celebrations in New Orleans' French Quarter, where large crowds and unique wildlife can pose risks if not properly managed.