Monkeys escape again from breeding farm in South Carolina | Beaufort County News

YEMASSEE – It happened again.

A group of 40 monkeys escaped from the Alpha Genesis Primate Research Center on November 6, according to a Facebook post from Yemassee police. The animals escaped from a facility on Castle Hall Road owned by a private company that breeds monkeys for medical testing and research.

“Traps have been set in the area and Yemassee Police are currently on scene using thermal cameras to locate the animals,” the updated post said around 9:45 p.m. “Residents are strongly advised to secure doors and windows to prevent these animals from entering their homes.”

Anyone who encounters the primates should call 911 instead of attempting to capture or contact them, the sheriff's office warned.

Yemassee police and representatives from Alpha Genesis were not immediately available for response.

The Lowcountry has experienced a number of primate escapes in recent years. In May, Japanese macaque Bradley escaped from his home in Walterboro. After a search lasting several days, Colleton County Animal Services determined the monkey had been captured. Two days later, officials announced that the animal was found dead.

In 2016, 19 monkeys escaped Alpha Genesis. The primates were returned home six hours after their prison break.

This is a developing story. Updates will be provided.