A man brought a snake to Chili’s without realizing what would happen next – and things quickly spiraled out of control

The parking lot of a Chili’s restaurant in Shallotte, North Carolina, became the scene of an unexpected wildlife encounter when local police responded to reports of a large snake slithering through the area. The culprit? A python, later identified as Una, whose impromptu adventure caused a stir in the quiet coastal town.

Shallotte police officers arrived promptly at the Chili’s location after receiving the unusual call. They quickly located the python and safely recovered the snake, ensuring it posed no threat to the public. To help reunite the pet with its owner, the Shallotte Police Department shared photos of the snake on its official Facebook page, alerting the community that the animal was in their custody.

The python’s owner, Christina Schiel, soon came forward to claim her pet at a local animal shelter. Schiel explained to WECT-TV that Una may have been hiding in her car and likely escaped while she was at Chili’s. Unbeknownst to Schiel, her scaly companion had hitched a ride and decided to explore the parking lot, turning an ordinary restaurant visit into a chaotic spectacle.

Fortunately, Una was found with only minor injuries and slight dehydration but was reported to be doing fine after the ordeal. Schiel expressed relief at being reunited with her pet, who had caused quite the commotion in Shallotte.

In North Carolina, pythons are legal as pets, as noted by WECT, which explains why Una was in Schiel’s possession. However, the incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of exotic pets and the importance of ensuring they remain secure, especially in public places like a Chili’s parking lot.

What started as a routine outing for Schiel spiraled into an unforgettable episode for both the restaurant’s patrons and the Shallotte police. Una’s brief taste of freedom may have been short-lived, but it left a lasting impression on the community.