The Grant County Sheriff’s Office shared an extraordinary sight on their Facebook page: camels gracefully traversing the highway, accompanied by zebras and surrounded by law enforcement officers. It was a scene straight out of a safari, unfolding on the shoulder and median of Interstate 69 in northeastern Indiana.
The spectacle began in the early hours of Saturday when a truck hauling zebras and camels for a weekend circus extravaganza encountered an unfortunate mishap—fire engulfed the trailer along I-69 in Grant County. Amidst the chaos, a state trooper, a Grant County Sheriff’s deputy, and a brave civilian sprang into action, rescuing the bewildered animals from the smoke-filled confines of the trailer.
Although the officers heroically battled smoke inhalation, their efforts ensured the safety of the five zebras, four camels, and one miniature horse. Miraculously, none of the animals sustained injuries, and the truck driver emerged unscathed.
The northbound lanes of I-69 remained shuttered until the early hours of dawn, as crews worked tirelessly to clear the scene and transport the displaced menagerie to safety. Photos and videos shared by the Grant County Sheriff’s Office depicted the surreal sight of camels and zebras leisurely grazing along the highway, a stark juxtaposition against the backdrop of the urban thoroughfare.
Deputy Brent Ressett of the Grant County Sheriff’s Office reflected on the unusual occurrence, remarking, “It’s not something we see every day.”
The ill-fated journey, intended to transport the animals from Florida to Fort Wayne for a series of circus performances, took an unexpected turn. However, Steve Trump, the circus director for the Mizpah Shrine Circus, expressed gratitude that the animals were swiftly rescued and transported to safety.
Despite the setback, the show went on as planned at Fort Wayne’s Memorial Coliseum, where the resilient animals awaited their cue to dazzle audiences. Trump marveled at the fortuitous turn of events, reflecting, “I was thrilled that things worked out that way.”