Mississippi Police Euthanize Escaped Monkeys Mistakenly Deemed Dangerous
A troubling incident occurred in Mississippi involving the euthanization of several monkeys. The primates were initially thought to pose a significant danger after a truck crash in Jasper County on Tuesday morning.
Details of the Incident
The truck transporting the monkeys crashed about 75 miles east of Jackson. According to the Jasper County Sheriff’s Department, the driver claimed the monkeys were aggressive and carried various diseases, including hepatitis C, herpes, and COVID-19. This alarming information led local law enforcement to act swiftly, assuming a potential threat to public safety.
Involvement of Tulane University
The rhesus monkeys were reportedly being transported from Tulane University’s National Biological Research Center. However, in a statement, Tulane clarified that the monkeys belonged to a third party and had not been exposed to any infectious agents. The university emphasized they were not responsible for the transport, but offered assistance to local authorities.
Public Safety Measures
After the crash occurred on Interstate 59 around 9:30 a.m., the Sheriff’s Department issued warnings to the public. They advised people to avoid any interaction with the monkeys due to their perceived aggressive nature and potential health risks. The local authorities suggested that the best course of action was to steer clear of the area.
Current Situation of the Monkeys
Initially, authorities announced that one monkey was missing. However, after further investigation, it was confirmed that three monkeys managed to escape. Each monkey weighed approximately 40 pounds. The Sheriff’s Department arranged for an animal disposal firm to handle the carcasses of the euthanized monkeys at the scene.
Conclusion
While the local authorities took action based on the information they received, this incident highlights the complexities surrounding the transportation of non-human primates. As the situation continues to develop, Tulane University is coordinating with animal care experts to recover the remaining monkeys safely.
