Mississippi highway accident sets ‘aggressive’ research monkeys loose in the community

Truck Accident Leads to Escaped Monkeys in Mississippi

A truck carrying monkeys from Tulane University in New Orleans overturned on a Mississippi highway, causing several large and, as described, “aggressive” monkeys to escape.

The Jasper County Sheriff’s Office reported that multiple rhesus macaques made their way into the surrounding area following the accident, which occurred north of Heidelberg. They mentioned that these monkeys average about 40 pounds and can pose risks to humans, needing protective gear for safe handling.

Authorities noted that these animals can carry various diseases, including hepatitis C, herpes, and even the coronavirus.

As of late afternoon, the sheriff’s office indicated that all but one of the monkeys had been managed, with ongoing efforts to locate the remaining animal. Their advice to the public was clear: if anyone spots this monkey, it’s best not to approach but to call 911 immediately.

Tulane University clarified that the particular primate involved belongs to a different entity and is not considered infectious. They mentioned their collaboration with local officials and their readiness to involve animal welfare experts if needed.

The university has not provided specifics on how many monkeys escaped or how many had been captured or killed.

On the matter of the response, local law enforcement teamed up with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Kathy Guillermo from PETA raised alarm about the potential dangers of the situation, warning that frightened monkeys in populated areas could pose pandemic risks.

Guillermodel explained that monkeys can spread serious diseases to humans, adding context about a prior outbreak at the Tulane National Primate Research Center. She criticized the industry’s practices and urged an end to the importation and use of monkeys in experiments.