A Houston police officer shot and killed an alligator after it was found with the remains of a missing woman in its mouth Tuesday, officials said.

Houston officers were searching for the woman, who was believed to be in her 60s, Tuesday morning when they discovered the animal in the Horsepen Bayou outside Houston.

An officer then fatally shot the alligator "to prevent it from doing more damage to the remains," in its mouth, Houston police said.

Police recovered the woman's remains, authorities said, and they are waiting on autopsy results to determine the cause of death.

It is not clear whether the alligator killed the woman or whether the woman was already dead when it came upon her, police said.

The incident is under investigation.

The discovery of the woman's remains in the alligator's mouth was a grim and shocking turn in the search operation. The woman, whose identity has not been released pending notification of her family, had been reported missing earlier that week. Neighbors and family members had expressed growing concern over her disappearance, prompting an extensive search effort in the area.

Houston police, along with wildlife officials, had been combing the Horsepen Bayou region, a known habitat for alligators, when they encountered the disturbing scene. The bayou, which winds through a mix of residential and undeveloped areas, is often frequented by locals for fishing and boating, making the incident even more alarming for the community.

Upon discovering the alligator with the remains, the responding officer had to make a rapid decision. "The officer had to act swiftly to ensure that the remains could be recovered and preserved for further investigation," a Houston Police Department spokesperson said in a statement. "It was a difficult situation, but the priority was to recover the remains with as little further damage as possible."

The alligator, estimated to be between 8 and 10 feet long, was a known presence in the bayou. Local wildlife officials noted that while alligator sightings are not uncommon in the area, incidents involving human remains are extremely rare. "Alligators are generally not aggressive towards humans unless provoked or if they feel threatened," said a representative from Texas Parks and Wildlife. "This incident is highly unusual and tragic."

As the investigation continues, police are working to piece together the woman's final moments. Autopsy results will be crucial in determining whether she was alive when the alligator encountered her or if she had died earlier due to other causes. This information will help investigators understand the sequence of events leading to the discovery.

The local community has been deeply affected by the incident, with many expressing shock and sorrow. "It's terrifying to think something like this could happen so close to home," said a nearby resident. "We are all waiting for answers and hoping that the investigation can provide some clarity."

Wildlife experts have been called in to assess the situation and ensure that no further immediate threats are present in the bayou. While this event is highly unusual, they advise residents to exercise caution when near bodies of water known to be inhabited by alligators.

This incident underscores the delicate balance between human habitats and wildlife environments, particularly in regions like southeastern Texas where encounters with alligators are possible. Authorities are urging residents to be vigilant and report any unusual wildlife behavior to local officials.

As the investigation unfolds, the Houston Police Department has assured the public that all necessary resources are being deployed to determine the circumstances surrounding the woman's death. The tragic incident has highlighted the need for ongoing awareness and caution in areas where human and wildlife territories overlap.

The broader implications of the incident also call attention to the need for increased safety measures and public education on living in proximity to wildlife. Experts suggest that residents should avoid feeding alligators, keep a safe distance, and be particularly cautious during mating season when alligators are more active. Public awareness campaigns and community engagement can play vital roles in preventing similar tragedies in the future.

In the wake of this incident, local authorities are considering additional signage and barriers in high-risk areas to minimize human-wildlife conflicts. Enhanced monitoring and quick response strategies are also being discussed to address potential threats more effectively. The collaboration between wildlife officials and law enforcement is crucial in maintaining safety while respecting the natural habitats of these powerful creatures.

In addition, there is a push for better communication and coordination between local communities and wildlife authorities. Regular community meetings and educational workshops can help residents understand the behaviors and risks associated with living near alligator habitats. By fostering a culture of respect and caution, both human and wildlife populations can coexist more safely. This tragic incident serves as a powerful reminder of the need for vigilance and preparedness in regions where the boundaries between human and wildlife territories blur.