Overview
- Sheriff Randy Johnson said 21 rhesus monkeys were on the truck, six escaped and 15 remained caged after the rollover on I‑59 near Heidelberg.
- Officials said all but one of the escaped monkeys were euthanized as crews continued searching for the remaining animal.
- Mississippi Wildlife and Fisheries responded to assist, and an animal disposal company was contacted to handle the carcasses.
- The sheriff’s office initially warned the monkeys carried hepatitis C, herpes and COVID, a claim Tulane disputed by saying the animals are not infectious.
- Tulane said the primates belong to another entity and offered animal care experts, while key details about ownership, transport arrangements and destination remain unclear.