The search for Gracie the giraffe continues, but online users are already imagining where the missing Texas animal may have wandered, from iconic landmarks to far-off destinations.
Gracie went missing in Real County, Texas, about a two-hour drive outside San Antonio. She vanished from Cedar Hollow Ranch and was last seen on a game camera west of the city of Leakey, reported USA TODAY, citing the Real County Sheriff’s Office.
Gracie’s owner is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to her safe return, the sheriff’s office said in a June 22 announcement.
Meanwhile, the internet is in a frenzy, speculating about where she might be, with the help of artificial intelligence.
In El Paso, Gracie was pictured touring the historic San Elizario, including a photo op at the Presidio Chapel of San Elizario and a towering presence over Billy the Kid.
The Uvalde Volunteer Fire Department playfully posted that Gracie was now part of the team and shared an image of her alongside crews as a probationary firefighter.
“After being reported missing in Real County earlier today, Gracie was quickly recruited due to her unique qualifications for elevated operations. Officials report she is already assisting crews with roof inspections, aerial observations, and reaching places no ladder can,” the post said.
Some Texas businesses have also joined in on the fun, using Gracie in AI-generated images to promote their products and services.
“This long-necked beauty was spotted out front of Taylor Soap Bar We thought she was just stopping by to soap up and freshen her spots, but now she’s missing. Keep your eyes peeled and help us bubble up some clues to bring Gracie home,” one Facebook post said.
An electric and plumbing company out of Schulenburg — situated between San Antonio and Houston — showcased an AI-generated image of Gracie peering out the back of a work van.
“We aren’t saying Gracie is hanging out with the Leon’s crew…but we aren’t saying she isn’t either,” the company posted, adding they are praying for her safe return.
Has Gracie the giraffe been found in Texas?
As of early Thursday, June 25, no reports indicate that Gracie has been found.
Since she got out, Gracie has been spotted on multiple game cameras at surrounding ranches in Real County, Johnson said. But by the time the camera owners noticed her and someone went to find her, she had already gone, reported USA TODAY.
Anybody who sees Gracie is asked to contact the sheriff’s office at 830-232-5201.
USA TODAY contributed to this story.
Natassia Paloma may be reached at npaloma@gannett.com, @NatassiaPaloma on X; natassia_paloma on Instagram, and Natassia Paloma on Facebook.
This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Missing Texas giraffe inspires wave of AI-generated sightings
Reporting by Natassia Paloma, El Paso Times / El Paso Times
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Natassia Paloma, El Paso Times | USA TODAY Network
