Yemassee Faces Ongoing Challenge as Monkeys Remain on the Loose
Yemassee, South Carolina – An unusual incident unfolded this week when 43 rhesus macaque monkeys escaped from the Alpha Genesis Primate Research Center, prompting a significant effort by local authorities to capture the animals. As of Saturday afternoon, officials confirmed that 42 primates are still unaccounted for, with one successfully returned to safety.
What Happened?
The escape occurred on Wednesday, drawing immediate concern from the Yemassee Police Department and the management of the research facility. By Saturday at noon, the police reported positive updates, stating that staff from Alpha Genesis were actively working on retrieving the remaining monkeys. These young primates, all females and weighing between 6 to 7 pounds, have never been used for testing and are not considered carriers of any disease.
Where Is It Happening?
The incident is centered at the Alpha Genesis Primate Research Center, located in Yemassee, which dedicates over 100 acres for biomedical research and breeding. This facility is notable as one of the largest of its kind in the United States. Local law enforcement officials have urged residents to stay away from the facility’s perimeter, where the monkeys have been sighted interacting with their confined counterparts.
When Did This Take Place?
The escape was first reported on Wednesday, with swift follow-up efforts by police and facility staff. By Friday, recovery operations were underway, employing humane traps to safely capture the playful yet elusive primates. The police provided updates throughout the week, assuring the community that the situation was being handled.
Why Is This Significant?
While the monkeys are known to be nonviolent, authorities are concerned that their state of restlessness may lead to unpredictable behavior. Residents have been advised to secure their homes, keeping doors and windows shut to prevent unwanted monkey entries. Reports indicate these animals can be startled easily, and congregate in groups, which adds to the need for caution.
In a statement, Alpha Genesis CEO Greg Westergaard expressed optimism regarding the situation, noting the calm and playful behavior exhibited by the escaped monkeys as they roam near the facility. This behavior has been observed as they playfully explore the grounds and engage with those still inside by cooing.
Previous Incidents
This isn’t the first escape at the Alpha Genesis facility. In 2016, 19 monkeys managed to break free but were returned within six hours. This history underscores the ongoing challenges of managing primate facilities. Officials continue to monitor the current situation closely, ensuring safety for both the animals and the public.
Ongoing Recovery Efforts
As recovery efforts persist, police and facility staff remain dedicated to capturing the remaining monkeys. They plan to use “Have a Heart” traps designed for humane capture. The assessment of the situation is fluid and evolving, with ongoing updates promised from law enforcement.
In conclusion, Yemassee residents are urged to exercise caution and report any sightings of the monkeys by calling local authorities. This incident serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in animal management, especially in a research facility setting.
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
