Tragic Encounter: Escaped Monkey Shot in Mississippi

Sat Dec 06 2025 23:34:41 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a startling incident in Heidelberg, Mississippi, a homeowner shot an escaped monkey from a research facility, sparking debates over safety and the implications of animal research.

A homeowner in Heidelberg, Mississippi, shot and killed an escaped Rhesus monkey on her property after fearing for her children's safety. The monkey was one of several that escaped from a truck carrying research animals from a facility in Louisiana. Local authorities confirmed the monkey's death amid concerns over potential diseases carried by the escaped primates.

HEIDELBERG, Miss. (AP) — A homeowner in Heidelberg, Mississippi, shot and killed an escaped monkey from a nearby research facility early Sunday morning, igniting discussions about public safety and animal rights.

Jessica Bond Ferguson reported that her 16-year-old son alerted her to the sighting of a monkey in their yard, prompting her to take action. Armed with a firearm, she ventured outside and encountered the animal approximately 60 feet away, making the decision to shoot in what she described as a protective measure for her five children.

I did what any other mother would do to protect her children, Bond stated. I shot at it, and it just stood there, and I shot again, and he backed up and that’s when he fell. The fired shot drew immediate attention due to concerns over the diseases commonly associated with Rhesus monkeys.

The Jasper County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that a local resident had found the monkey and later reported the incident. They stated that the Mississippi Department of Wildlife took possession of the deceased animal for further assessment.

Sources claim that the Rhesus monkeys had escaped from a truck that had overturned while on its way to a research facility in Louisiana. Tulane University confirmed that the monkeys were not affiliated with them and were mistakenly believed to be under their control.

This incident sparks a larger debate about the implications of animal research and the potential dangers that accompany it. Local officials are expected to address public concerns regarding animal welfare and safety in ongoing community discussions.