Authorities are still searching for three Rhesus monkeys that escaped after a truck from Tulane’s biomedical research center crashed in Jasper County.
A truck transporting Rhesus monkeys from the Tulane National Biomedical Research Center crashed Tuesday afternoon on Interstate 59 in Jasper County, Mississippi. The vehicle was carrying 21 monkeys when the accident occurred, resulting in multiple animals escaping from their transport cages.
Following the crash, officials confirmed that five monkeys were euthanized, while three remain unaccounted for.
Search teams from Tulane University and local law enforcement are actively working to locate the missing monkeys in the surrounding area.
Tulane University staff arrived at the scene soon after the crash to assist local authorities. Animal care experts from the university joined the ongoing search operations, bringing specialized training and equipment to safely capture the missing primates.
According to the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, the truck driver told officers that the monkeys were dangerous and should not be approached. “We took the appropriate actions after being given that information from the person transporting the monkeys,” the sheriff’s office said. “He also stated that handlers are required to wear PPE equipment to handle the monkeys.”
Residents have been warned not to approach the animals and to contact law enforcement immediately if they are seen. Officials reassured the public that the monkeys had recently undergone medical examinations and were confirmed to be pathogen-free.
In a formal statement, Tulane University clarified that the primates involved did not belong to the institution. “Nonhuman primates at the Tulane National Biomedical Research Center are provided to other research organizations to advance scientific discovery,” Tulane said.
“The primates in question belong to another entity, and they have not been exposed to any infectious agent. The nonhuman primates were not being transported by Tulane, but we are actively collaborating with local authorities and sending a team of animal care experts to assist as needed.”
The Tulane National Biomedical Research Center conducts critical biomedical research aimed at improving human and animal health.
The facility focuses on identifying the causes, preventions, treatments, and cures for major diseases that affect global populations. Research involving Rhesus monkeys contributes to advancements in vaccine development, immune system studies, and neurological research.
Local officials continue to monitor the situation closely as search teams remain on the ground. There have been no reports of injuries or public health risks, but authorities urge residents to stay cautious until all missing monkeys are safely recovered.
The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing. Tulane University and local law enforcement have reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring both community safety and humane treatment of the animals.
The recovery effort highlights the importance of strict transport protocols for laboratory animals to prevent future incidents of this nature.
Officials continue to monitor the situation and maintain communication with the public until all animals are safely located.
