Mississippi Monkeys Escape After Truck Crash University Denies Disease Risk

A truck transporting Rhesus monkeys from Tulane University to a testing facility in Florida overturned on Interstate 59 in Jasper County, Mississippi, causing several monkeys to escape. Initial reports by the Jasper County Sheriff's Office claimed the monkeys were infected with hepatitis C, herpes, and COVID-19 and were aggressive, leading authorities to euthanize all but one escaped monkey. However, Tulane University disputed these claims, stating the monkeys belonged to another entity and were not infectious or exposed to any diseases. The university emphasized its collaboration with local authorities and sent a team of animal care experts to assist in recovering the remaining animals safely. Authorities warned the public not to approach the monkeys and to call 911 if sighted, as they require specialized handling due to their aggression and size. The search for the last escaped monkey is ongoing, with assistance from Mississippi Wildlife and Fisheries.