Monkeys on the Loose After Truck Crash on I-59 in Jasper County

Jasper County, MS (October 28, 2025) — A crash on Interstate 59 near mile marker 117 caused an unusual scene Tuesday afternoon when a truck carrying monkeys overturned, releasing several of the animals onto the highway.

The accident occurred around 2:00 p.m. when a transport truck struck the median on the northbound side of I-59. Officials with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, the Jasper County Sheriff’s Department, and MHP responded to the scene.

Authorities confirmed that the truck was carrying 21 monkeys. Most have been accounted for, but one remains unaccounted for as of Tuesday evening. Officials say that five of the escaped monkeys were “eliminated” for safety reasons after being deemed a potential threat to the public and responders.

Drivers in the area experienced temporary delays as crews worked to secure the animals and clear debris from the highway. Officials advise anyone who spots a loose monkey not to approach it and to immediately contact local law enforcement.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.