Authorities in Mississippi are warning residents to stay alert after a truck carrying rhesus lab monkeys from the Tulane National Biomedical Research Center crashed Tuesday afternoon on Interstate 59 near Heidelberg.
Out of the 21 monkeys on board, five were killed, 15 were recovered safely, and one remains on the loose, according to the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office.
“Do Not Approach the Animal”
Sheriff’s officials are urging the public not to approach or attempt to capture the missing monkey, warning that the animals are aggressive toward humans and require protective equipment to handle safely.
“If you see a monkey, call 911 immediately,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement.
Authorities added that any monkeys found outside the containment area will be euthanized for safety reasons.
Confusion Over Health Concerns
Early reports from local officials mistakenly claimed that the monkeys carried COVID-19, Hepatitis C, and herpes, but Tulane University has since clarified that the animals are not infectious and do not pose a public health risk.
In a statement shared via Instagram, Tulane said the primates “do not belong to Tulane University” but confirmed that the university’s animal care experts were assisting in the recovery operation.
Rescue Teams on the Scene
Tulane has dispatched a specialized animal care team to help recover the surviving monkeys and secure the crash site.
The 15 monkeys that remained caged are being retrieved by staff and relocated for examination.
It remains unclear where the transport truck was headed or whether any humans were injured in the crash.
A History of Research
The Tulane National Biomedical Research Center, located in Covington, Louisiana, houses about 5,000 animals for research purposes.
The facility, formerly known as the Tulane National Primate Research Center, was renamed earlier this month to reflect its broader biomedical research mission.
Developing Story
Officials are continuing their search for the missing monkey and have asked local residents to remain vigilant.
As of Tuesday evening, there had been no confirmed sightings.
Anyone who spots the animal is urged to avoid contact and call 911 immediately.
