Monkeys Escape After Truck Overturns in Mississippi en Route to Florida Zoo
The incident involving a truck carrying monkeys en route to a Florida zoo has raised concerns in Mississippi. The vehicle overturned near the 117-mile marker north of Heidelberg on a Tuesday, resulting in several monkeys escaping.
Details of the Incident
The Jasper County Sheriff’s Department reported that the truck, which was transporting monkeys from Tulane University, had 21 monkeys in total. Currently, six monkeys are unaccounted for. Sheriff Randy Johnson stated that 15 monkeys remain on the truck, although their condition is unknown.
Potential Risks and Safety Precautions
These monkeys, identified as Rehsus monkeys, each weigh approximately 40 pounds. They have the potential to be aggressive towards humans and require personal protective equipment (PPE) for safe handling. The monkeys are known carriers of hepatitis C, herpes, and COVID-19.
- Number of monkeys on the truck: 21
- Monkeys still missing: 6
- Monkeys remaining in the truck: 15
- Weight of each monkey: 40 pounds
Public Advisory and Next Steps
Authorities are urging the public not to approach any monkeys they might encounter. Instead, individuals should call 911 to report sightings. The Sheriff’s Department is actively seeking more information regarding potential health risks posed by the escaped monkeys.
Tulane University has been informed about the situation and plans to dispatch a team to collect the remaining monkeys the following day. Officials have indicated that if any monkeys leave the crash site, they may need to be shot to ensure public safety.
Response efforts are in progress, and the Sheriff’s Department is coordinating actions to reconnect the lost monkeys with safety. Further updates will be shared as they become available.
