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The Yemassee Police Department released the following official statement on Wednesday:
“At approximately 1 pm on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, the Yemassee Police Department received an alert from Alpha Genesis regarding the escape of numerous rhesus macaque primates from their enclosures at the Yemassee facility located at 95 Castle Hall Rd, Yemassee, SC. The number has since been confirmed to be 43.”
Police clarified that the escaped primates are young females weighing around 6 to 7 pounds, adding that due to their age and size, they have never been used in research testing and pose no health risk to the community. “A spokesperson from Alpha Genesis can confirm that these animals are too young to carry disease,” the department noted, emphasizing that the escapees are not a danger to public health.
In a coordinated effort with Alpha Genesis, the police have set up search teams to track down the monkeys. The teams are equipped with traps and other humane methods to capture the animals safely, while Alpha Genesis staff members are working to coax the primates back using food as bait. Authorities are asking the public to avoid the vicinity of the escape and to take extra precautions by keeping doors and windows tightly closed.
Residents are reminded to call 911 for immediate assistance if they encounter one of the monkeys, and under no circumstances should they attempt to capture or corner the animals themselves. The police added that further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
Local authorities have confirmed that 43 rhesus macaque monkeys escaped from Alpha Genesis on Castle Hall Road. As of now, none of the animals have been successfully recaptured, though efforts are ongoing. Officials continue to reassure the community, emphasizing that there is no health risk posed by the escaped primates.
Current Actions Taken
- Trap Setup: Traps have been strategically placed in the area to safely capture the animals.
- Thermal Imaging: Officers are employing thermal imaging technology to locate the monkeys in nearby wooded areas and any structures they may have entered.
Safety Advisory for Residents
Residents are strongly encouraged to keep doors and windows locked to prevent the primates from entering their homes. If any of the animals are seen, residents should immediately contact emergency services by dialing 911, and should avoid approaching the monkeys for any reason
The Yemassee Police Department and Alpha Genesis have expressed gratitude for the community’s cooperation and patience, ensuring residents that all necessary precautions and resources are being utilized to capture the monkeys without incident. Officials reiterated their commitment to a safe resolution and pledged to provide ongoing updates as new information becomes available.
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Alpha Genesis, Inc., the facility from which the primates escaped, is known globally for its work in providing nonhuman primate products and bio-research services. Despite the current situation, Alpha Genesis emphasized that the animals are safe to be around and assured residents that every measure is being taken to secure them.
This incident is not without precedent. Last year, a truck transporting lab monkeys was involved in an accident in Pennsylvania, which led to the brief escape of several monkeys. After the accident, three monkeys managed to flee but were later captured and euthanized. In that case, a woman who came into contact with the monkeys experienced mild symptoms, including pink eye and a cough, raising public concerns at the time.
For now, authorities in Yemassee remain focused on locating and recapturing the escaped monkeys. The community is urged to stay vigilant, follow police instructions, and await further updates on this unusual incident.
