In late October, a truck carrying 21 rhesus monkeys crashed in Jasper County, Mississippi, sending one monkey named Forrest on an unexpected journey to a New Jersey animal refuge.\n\nThe accident occurred at the end of October, 75 miles east of Jackson, as the vehicle overturned on a highway. The monkeys had been housed at a facility linked to the Tulane University National Primate Research Center in Louisiana, though Tulane later clarified it neither owned nor transported the animals. The animals were destined for various scientific research organizations.\n\nFollowing the crash, several monkeys escaped into the surrounding area, quickly drawing national attention. A search was launched, but misinformation spread among law‑enforcement officers and local residents who feared the animals might pose a danger. Tragically, a number of escaped monkeys were shot during these efforts.\n\nWhile the rest of the group was eventually recaptured and returned to their original destination about a week later, one monkey with a tattooed identification number \”NI 62\” remained missing the longest. He became the sole survivor of the escape and would later be named Forrest.\n\nAfter spending roughly a week on his own, Forrest was safely recovered and transferred to Popcorn Park Animal Refuge in Forked River, New Jersey. The refuge confirmed that because he had spent so much time outside of the facility, he could not return to the research program.\n\n\”Now living safely in our Monkey House, Forrest is steadily acclimating to his new home, the refuge shared in a social media post. He’s getting to know his caretakers and his neighboring monkeys, slowly building trust day by day. He has discovered a growing list of favorite foods (grapes topping the list!) and has even begun vocalizing, a good sign that he is becoming more comfortable and confident in his new surroundings.\”\n\nThis Giving Tuesday, supporters can help Forrest and thousands of other rescued animals by donating to provide food, veterinary services, and essential care that gives these animals a true second chance at life.\n\n## Key Takeaways\n- 21 rhesus monkeys were involved in a truck crash in Jasper County, Mississippi.\n- One monkey, identified as NI 62, survived an escape and was rescued.\n- Forrest now lives at Popcorn Park Animal Refuge in Forked River, New Jersey.\n- Donations on Giving Tuesday support food, veterinary care, and essential services for rescued animals.\n\nFrom a chaotic highway accident to a new sanctuary, Forrest’s story underscores the resilience of animals and the compassion of those who care for them. While he can no longer join a research program, he has found a peaceful life among fellow primates, slowly regaining confidence and enjoying simple pleasures like grapes. His journey reminds us that even in the face of unexpected challenges, a second chance is possible.
