Indianapolis fire crews responded to the Indianapolis Zoo on November 14 after reports surfaced regarding a chimpanzee that had allegedly escaped its enclosure. The Indianapolis Fire Department was dispatched around 10:10 a.m., but by 11 a.m., the nature of the call shifted to a broader “investigation” at the zoo, located at 1200 W. Washington St.
Details surrounding the incident remain unclear, especially regarding whether anyone has been bitten by the animal. IndyStar has reached out to zoo officials for further information but has yet to receive a response.
A zoo visitor reported that the chimpanzee, believed to be named Mara, was being targeted for tranquilization by zoo handlers. During this time, some guests were instructed to take shelter in secure areas, such as the dolphin exhibit, while others were escorted off the premises. Sherman Williams, a bus driver supervising a field trip with 37 children, expressed his concern on social media, questioning why a chimpanzee would be loose at a place meant for family enjoyment.
Adding to the unexpected events at the zoo, just the night before, the zoo had shared a lighthearted video on their Facebook page celebrating a chimpanzee’s birthday. This incident follows a recent troubling event where two endangered tortoises were stolen from the zoo, but thankfully, they were recovered shortly after being dumped at a nearby park.
Zoo incidents like these underscore the need for strict adherence to safety protocols, ensuring both animal and visitor safety. Despite the current situation, the hope remains that the animal will be safely contained without further incidents.