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Three Monkeys Still Missing After Mississippi Truck Crash That Freed Research Animals

Officials attribute the earlier disease warning to the trucker’s claims rather than confirmed lab findings.

Overview

  • Authorities revised the tally to 21 monkeys on the truck, with 13 recaptured, five dead and three still unaccounted for, according to local reports cited by USA TODAY.
  • Tulane University says the primates were pathogen‑free, were not owned or transported by the university, and it dispatched animal‑care experts to assist at the scene.
  • Deputies euthanized most escapees after the driver warned the monkeys were dangerous and required protective gear, and they urged the public to call 911 rather than approach any animals.
  • Mississippi Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks joined local law enforcement and an animal‑disposal contractor in the response, and remaining caged monkeys were returned to a facility in Louisiana.
  • Key details remain under investigation, including who owned and operated the transport and what caused the truck to overturn on I‑59 near Heidelberg.