Aggressive Monkeys on the Loose After Mississippi Crash: Authorities Alert Residents
Residents of Jasper County, Mississippi, are on high alert following an unusual incident involving three aggressive monkeys. The monkeys escaped after a truck carrying them crashed on Interstate 59.
Details of the Incident
On Tuesday afternoon, a truck transporting the monkeys flipped near mile marker 117. This accident allowed several monkeys to escape, prompting immediate action from local authorities.
Current Status of the Monkeys
- Five monkeys were confirmed dead at the scene.
- Thirteen monkeys remained secured in their cages and were taken into custody.
- Three monkeys are still at large and considered aggressive to humans.
The Jasper County Sheriff’s Office is coordinating with Tulane University officials regarding the situation. Representatives from the Tulane National Biomedical Research Center quickly responded to the crash site to assess the situation and provide updated information on the animals.
Authorities’ Response and Safety Measures
Jasper County Sheriff Randy Johnson emphasized the importance of public safety in this matter. He reassured the community that the escaped monkeys are not infected with diseases, despite initial rumors regarding potential infections such as COVID-19, hepatitis C, and herpes. Tulane has confirmed that these monkeys weigh approximately 40 pounds and were not under their direct transportation oversight.
Community Precautions
Local residents are urged to remain vigilant. Authorities advise against approaching the escaped monkeys if spotted. Instead, they should report sightings to law enforcement for safe recovery.
This unusual situation highlights the complexities of animal transport and containment. The Jasper County Sheriff’s Office continues to monitor the situation closely as they work to capture the remaining primates.
