Zebra escapes captivity and causes highway chaos in Tennessee

In Tennessee, authorities are actively searching for a pet zebra that escaped from its owner's property this past weekend. The zebra disappeared less than 24 hours after arriving at its new home on Friday, June 1, 2025. Witnesses reported seeing the zebra running along Interstate 24, causing significant disturbance and traffic disruptions. The Rutherford County Sheriff's Office responded by closing off sections of the highway to ensure both public safety and to facilitate the animal's capture. Despite these efforts, the zebra managed to flee into a wooded area nearby. After sightings throughout Saturday, the zebra continued to evade capture despite the diligent search efforts from local law enforcement. The sheriff's office has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings of the zebra to help track the runaway animal. It remains unaccounted for as of Monday morning, June 2, leading to concerns that it may have traveled further away from the area or found a hiding spot. The zebra's quick escape raised questions among the community about the circumstances surrounding its acquisition and previous ownership. Understanding how the zebra managed to escape so shortly after arriving poses significant implications for pet ownership regulations in Tennessee. The unusual situation has drawn attention and curiosity from local residents, prompting discussions regarding exotic or unconventional pets. As the search continues, the authorities emphasize the importance of ensuring the wellbeing of the zebra while simultaneously protecting the safety of the public. The sheriff's office has encouraged anyone who may spot the zebra to contact them directly, hoping for its safe return to its owner. The community remains on high alert as officials continue their pursuits to locate the elusive zebra and bring the situation to a resolution.