Monkeys Flee After Truck Overturns on Mississippi Highway; 1 Remains Missing
On a Tuesday in early October, a truck carrying rhesus monkeys overturned on a Mississippi highway, leading to a chaotic escape of the animals. The incident occurred about 100 miles from Jackson, Mississippi, near Heidelberg, prompting responses from local authorities.
Accident Details
Witnesses reported seeing monkeys crawling through the grass along Interstate 59 as transport crates labeled “live animals” lay strewn about. The Jasper County Sheriff’s Department confirmed that the monkeys were being transported from Tulane University’s National Biomedical Research Center in New Orleans.
Safety Concerns
Officials noted that the monkeys were potentially dangerous and required personal protective equipment (PPE) for handling. While the exact number of monkeys on board remains unclear, it has been reported that all but one have been killed since the accident.
Health Risks
Although the monkeys can carry diseases, authorities indicated they were not infectious at the time of the incident. Rhesus monkeys are well-studied in the biomedical field and typically weigh around 16 pounds.
Collaboration with Local Authorities
- The driver of the truck had warned that the monkeys posed a threat to humans.
- Mississippi Wildlife and Fisheries personnel were deployed to the scene.
- Tulane University committed to assisting law enforcement and addressing the situation with animal care experts.
Background on Rhesus Monkeys
Rhesus macaques are known for their adaptability and bold behavior. They were introduced to the United States in the 1970s for research purposes. These primates typically have brown fur and striking red faces, making them easily recognizable.
Previous Incidents
This incident is reminiscent of a similar event in November 2024, when 43 rhesus macaque monkeys escaped from a research facility in South Carolina, prompting a safety alert for local residents. All of those monkeys were captured safely by January.
As investigators look into the cause of the truck’s overturning and track the missing monkey, public interest remains high regarding the safety and handling of these primates.
