PICACHO, Ariz. — In an unfolding event that could be dubbed as the great tortoise getaway, a sulcata tortoise named Stitch recently found himself at the center of an unusual rescue operation.
The saga began on July 30 when a vigilant motorist spotted the tortoise attempting to navigate the perilous lanes of Interstate 10 in southern Arizona, a bustling corridor approximately midway between Casa Grande and Tucson in Pinal County. Concerned for the slow-moving creature’s safety amidst the speeding traffic, the motorist promptly contacted the state Department of Public Safety (DPS).
Enter DPS Sgt. Steven Sekrecki, who, alongside the Good Samaritan motorist, took swift action. The duo managed to intervene just in time, guiding Stitch away from imminent danger and onto the relative safety of the roadside. The rescue operation was a success; the tortoise emerged unharmed from his highway adventure.
A closer inspection of the wanderer revealed a curious detail: the name “Stitch” was inscribed on the tortoise’s shell. This clue led troopers to connect the tortoise with an ostrich ranch located three miles away. The ranch, reached via a quick phone call, confirmed that Stitch was indeed one of their own. The adventurous tortoise had recently made an unsanctioned bid for freedom from his designated habitat.
With the mystery of Stitch’s origins solved, the only task remaining was to ensure his safe return. Thanks to the joint efforts of the motorist, Sgt. Sekrecki, and the ranch staff, Stitch’s desert escapade came to a tranquil end as he was safely escorted back to the ranch he calls home.
