Columbia Woman Finds Uninvited Python in Bathroom, Authorities Step In to Rescue

Columbia Residents Shocked by Uninvited Python

In Columbia, South Carolina, a woman was startled early Tuesday morning when she discovered a large snake behind her toilet. The incident occurred around 5 a.m. at Rice Terrace Apartments, as reported by the Richland County Sheriff’s Department.

Who Was Involved?

The woman, whose identity has not been released, found the snake, later identified as a ball python, while going about her morning routine. Unlike many residents, the snake was not a pet of hers but rather an unexpected visitor.

What Happened?

Upon seeing the snake, the woman screamed and immediately called for help. Recognizing the unusual situation, she initially reached out to a friend before both contacted the law enforcement authorities. Master Deputy Shannon Huffman responded quickly to the scene, bringing with her experience in handling animals.

Where Did This Occur?

The encounter took place in a bathroom at the Rice Terrace Apartments and Townhomes, located at 107 Rice Terrace Drive in the Columbia area. This residential complex is situated between Hardscrabble Road and Longtown Road, near Ridge View High School.

When Did The Incident Take Place?

The discovery was made just after 5 a.m. on Tuesday, November 6, 2024. The early hour contributed to the shock experienced by the startled resident.

Why Was The Snake There?

Authorities have not determined how the python ended up in the apartment. Given the snake’s size, it is suspected that it might belong to someone in the complex who lost their pet. However, so far, no one has come forward to claim the reptile, leaving its origins a mystery.

Outcome of the Incident

When deputies arrived, they skillfully extracted the snake from the bathroom, placing it in a pillowcase for safe transportation. Fortunately, neither the woman nor the snake suffered any injuries. The only reported damage was a flood in the bathroom, though the details regarding how the flood occurred remain unclear.

Response from the Sheriff’s Department

Master Deputy Alexandra Salrin expressed relief at the handling of the situation, stating, “We were able to provide a solution to the resident quickly and save the snake’s life!” She noted that while calls involving animals are common, dealing with exotic species like snakes is rare.

Deputy Huffman, a member of the Community Action Team with nearly four years of service, handled the situation adeptly, drawing on her experience with various animals. This unique incident was shared on social media, which highlighted the deputies’ training and readiness to confront unexpected challenges.

Conclusion

As the sheriff’s department briefs continue, they intend to follow up on the unopened mystery of the snake’s origin. The ball python has not been left to wander freely; it has been taken home by one of the Operations deputies for safe keeping. Columbia residents are now left wondering about their unusual bathroom guest as they reflect on a surprising start to the day.

For now, the community breathes a sigh of relief knowing both the woman and the snake were unharmed after this unexpected turn of events.