By Shawn Henry 
Authorities in Jasper County, Mississippi, are warning residents to stay alert and avoid contact after a truck carrying Rhesus monkeys from Tulane University overturned on Interstate 59 early Tuesday morning, releasing several of the animals into the area.
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According to Sheriff Randy Johnson, the truck was transporting 21 monkeys to a testing facility in Florida when it crashed near the 117-mile marker, just north of Heidelberg. Several of the primates escaped following the crash.
Johnson said that while most of the monkeys have been accounted for, at least one remains uncontained. Law enforcement and wildlife officials are urging the public not to approach the animals under any circumstances and to call 911 immediately if one is spotted.
“Do not try to capture or touch these monkeys,” Sheriff Johnson warned. “They can be aggressive and are carriers of diseases including hepatitis C, herpes, and COVID.”
Authorities confirmed that five of the escaped monkeys were eliminated for safety reasons. Crews from Tulane University are being sent to retrieve the remaining animals and assist with cleanup and containment efforts.
The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks joined local law enforcement on-site to help manage the situation and coordinate with an animal disposal company. Officials say the highway remains partially restricted as cleanup continues.
Photos from the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office show cages strewn along the roadside and responders working to secure the surviving animals.
The sheriff reiterated that residents near Heidelberg and along I-59 should remain cautious until all animals are accounted for.
“If you see one, do not approach it — report it,” he said.
The incident has sparked both concern and disbelief online, as images of overturned cages and biohazard warnings began circulating Tuesday morning. Officials stress that public safety and containment are the top priorities as recovery efforts continue.
Via Jasper Co. Sheriff’s Office