Jasper County, Mississippi — Authorities in Mississippi are dealing with a bizarre and concerning situation after a truck carrying rhesus monkeys crashed on Tuesday, releasing several of the animals into the wild. While most have been recovered and euthanized, three monkeys remain missing, prompting an urgent search by local law enforcement and animal control teams.
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What Happened
The crash occurred near mile marker 117 on Interstate 59, when a transport truck carrying the monkeys overturned. According to the Jasper County Sheriff’s Department, the animals were described as “aggressive to humans”, and officers were instructed to use personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling them.
Initial reports suggested that the monkeys might be carrying hepatitis C, herpes, or COVID-19, causing widespread alarm. However, Tulane University, which oversees the Tulane National Biomedical Research Center, later clarified that the monkeys were not infected with any infectious diseases.
Despite these reassurances, officials remain cautious as three monkeys are still unaccounted for. The Sheriff’s Office is working with a specialized animal disposal company to capture the remaining animals and ensure public safety.
Who Was Involved and Background of the Case
The rhesus monkeys were being transported for research purposes related to biomedical studies. Tulane University confirmed that it was not directly involved in the transportation process, which was being handled by a third-party contractor.
The monkeys were reportedly part of a research program designed to advance medical and scientific discovery. Tulane officials emphasized that the animals had not been exposed to infectious agents and posed no biological hazard to the public.
“Non-human primates at the Tulane National Biomedical Research Center are provided to other research organizations to advance scientific discovery,” Tulane University said in a statement. “The primates in question belong to another unit, and they have not been exposed to any infectious agents.”
Investigations and Ongoing Efforts
Authorities continue to search for the missing monkeys, with Tulane University sending a team of animal care specialists to assist in the effort. Officials say that the situation is under control and that all remaining monkeys in cages are being closely monitored.
The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA)—wait, check → correction: The Jasper County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation into how the crash occurred and coordinating efforts with state wildlife and animal control units to safely capture the loose monkeys.
Officials have assured residents that no monkeys have shown signs of illness, and they are urging the public to avoid direct contact with any animals spotted near the crash site.
Public and Social Media Reactions
News of the escaped monkeys quickly went viral, drawing both concern and curiosity from the public. Social media users have expressed mixed reactions—some worried about potential health risks, while others have shared humorous takes on the unusual event.
Local residents have been urged to report any monkey sightings immediately to authorities and to keep a safe distance. Public safety remains the top priority as teams continue their efforts to locate the animals.
Official Statement and Next Steps
Jasper County officials confirmed that three monkeys remain on the loose, despite earlier reports suggesting only one had escaped. The situation is being closely monitored, and search operations are ongoing in cooperation with Tulane University and animal control professionals.
The university’s animal care team is expected to arrive on-site soon to assist in capturing the missing monkeys and returning them safely to proper care. Officials continue to emphasize that the risk to the public is minimal.
Conclusion
The Mississippi monkey escape has drawn national attention due to its unusual circumstances and the ongoing search for the missing animals. Authorities are working tirelessly to resolve the situation, ensure public safety, and prevent further complications.
This story may be updated as investigations progress and new details emerge about the crash and recovery efforts. For now, residents are urged to remain alert and report any sightings as the search continues.