ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) - An alligator is being blamed for causing two crashes in St. Petersburg.

The Florida Highway Patrol says Bruce Foley struck a 12-foot alligator crossing Interstate 275 with his 2012 Toyota sedan early Sunday.

The gator escaped into the woods but emerged about a half hour later.

Authorities say the alligator attempted to cross the interstate again but was struck by a second vehicle, a 2004 Kia driven by Verna Christopherson.

This time the alligator sustained fatal injuries. The remains were removed by a trapper.

Neither driver was injured in the collisions, though both cars were damaged.

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