In a surprising turn of events, 40 monkeys have escaped from a research facility in South Carolina. The incident occurred at the Alpha Genesis facility located in Yemassee, which is about 60 miles from Charleston. The local police are working hard to capture these runaway primates and have issued a warning to the community to secure their homes.
What Happened?
The monkeys broke free from their enclosure. This facility is known for its work with monkeys, and now it has become the center of attention. The police quickly sprang into action. They are using traps and thermal imaging cameras to find the monkeys. These tools help them see in the dark and catch the monkeys safely.
Community Safety First
The police have warned the community to lock their doors and windows tight. It is very important for people to keep their homes safe. The police told everyone to call 911 if they see any of the monkeys. This is crucial because the monkeys can be unpredictable when they are scared or hungry.

Why Are the Monkeys Escaping?
So, why did these monkeys escape? The company, Alpha Genesis, specializes in breeding monkeys for research. The CEO of Alpha Genesis, Greg Westergaard, said it was a “100% human error.” A caretaker did not secure the doors properly while cleaning. This mistake led to the big escape. It’s important to note that these monkeys have never been used for testing and are quite young.
What Are the Police Doing?
The police are taking this situation very seriously. They have set up traps in the area where the monkeys were last seen. They are also using thermal imaging cameras to locate the monkeys. This technology helps them see the monkeys even in the dark. They are working closely with the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office and state wildlife officials to catch the monkeys safely.
Advice for Residents
Residents have been advised to take extra precautions. Here are some tips:
- Keep doors and windows closed and locked.
- Avoid approaching the monkeys if you see them.
- Call 911 immediately if you spot a monkey.
It’s important to remember that while these monkeys are not violent, they can be scared and might act unpredictably. The police want to ensure everyone remains safe during this unusual situation.

The Background of Alpha Genesis
The Alpha Genesis facility is one of the largest primate research centers in the U.S. They house many monkeys and are known for their work in biomedical research. This is not the first escape from Alpha Genesis. In 2016, 19 monkeys escaped but were found and returned within hours. The facility has faced some issues in the past, including fines from the USDA for past escapes.
What Happens Next?
The police are continuing their search for the monkeys. They have people keeping lookout in the areas where the monkeys are believed to be. The CEO of Alpha Genesis stated that they have seen monkeys in the woods next to their property. They are hopeful that the situation will be resolved soon.
Community Reaction
Residents in the area are understandably concerned. They are not used to seeing monkeys running around their neighborhoods! The local police have been very active in communicating with the community about what to do. People are sharing information and keeping an eye out for the escaped monkeys.

Conclusion
This is a developing story, and updates will come as the situation unfolds. For now, the police are focused on capturing the monkeys safely and ensuring the community is safe. Remember, if you see a monkey, do not approach it! Stay safe, everyone!