JASPER COUNTY, Miss. – Authorities in Mississippi are dealing with a peculiar and concerning situation after a truck carrying rhesus monkeys crashed on Tuesday, leaving several of the animals on the loose. While some of the monkeys were captured and “destroyed,” three are still unaccounted for, sparking a search by local law enforcement and animal control teams.
What Happened
The incident occurred on Interstate 59 near mile marker 117, when the truck transporting the monkeys crashed. According to the Jasper County Sheriff’s Department, the monkeys had been described as “aggressive to humans,” necessitating the use of personal protective equipment to handle them. Initial reports suggested the animals carried Hepatitis C, herpes, and COVID, raising concerns for public safety. However, a subsequent clarification from Tulane University, which had been contacted due to the involvement of the Tulane National Biomedical Research Center, stated that the monkeys were not infected with any infectious diseases.
Despite this reassurance, the situation remains serious as three monkeys are still on the loose. The sheriff’s office is working closely with an animal disposal company to capture the remaining monkeys and prevent any potential danger to the public.
Who Was Involved / Background of the Case
The rhesus monkeys in question were part of a research project. They were being transported by a third-party entity, not by Tulane University, which clarified that it was not involved in the transportation process. The monkeys were intended for use in scientific research to help advance medical and scientific discovery, as part of the work conducted by the Tulane National Biomedical Research Center. The university emphasized that the animals had not been exposed to any infectious agents.
Investigation and Ongoing Efforts
While the crash has created a public safety issue, authorities have assured the public that the remaining monkeys, which are in cages, are being closely monitored. Tulane University is actively assisting in the effort to locate the remaining animals, and the university has dispatched a team of animal care experts to help with the situation.
“Non-human primates at the Tulane National Biomedical Research Center are provided to other research organizations to advance scientific discovery,” Tulane University stated. “The primates in question belong to another entity, and they have not been exposed to any infectious agent.”
Public and Social Media Reactions
The news of the monkey escape has generated significant attention online, with many social media users expressing concern about the safety of the public and the well-being of the animals. Local residents have been urged to report any sightings of the escaped monkeys, as they could pose a risk if they encounter humans. Authorities have also reassured the public that they are actively working to resolve the situation.
Official Statements and Next Steps
Jasper County authorities have clarified that three monkeys are still unaccounted for, not just one as initially reported. The situation remains under control, and local authorities, alongside Tulane University, are continuing efforts to locate the escaped animals. The university’s animal care team is expected to arrive soon to assist in capturing the remaining monkeys and ensuring they are safely returned to their proper care.
Closing Line
This story may be updated with more information as the investigation unfolds and the search for the remaining monkeys continues. Authorities are working tirelessly to resolve this unusual and concerning situation and ensure public safety.
The post Several Monkeys Escaped After Truck Crash in Mississippi – Three Still on the Loose first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
