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Lab Monkey Survives Crash, Finds New Life
3 Dec, 2025
Summary
- A rhesus macaque named Forrest survived a truck crash.
- He escaped and was on the run for nearly a week.
- Forrest now lives at Popcorn Park Animal Refuge.
A remarkable tale of survival and sanctuary unfolds for Forrest, a rhesus macaque, who has found a new home at the Popcorn Park Animal Refuge in Ocean County, New Jersey. Forrest was among 21 monkeys being transported for biomedical research when the truck they were in overturned in Mississippi.
The accident resulted in several monkeys escaping. Forrest was the last of the remaining escapees to be safely captured, having spent nearly a week in the wild. His extended time outside the facility meant he could no longer participate in the research program.
Recognizing his unique circumstances, the refuge provided Forrest with a lifelong sanctuary. Initially nameless with only an identification tattoo, he is now settling into his new life, building trust with caretakers and fellow monkeys, and discovering new favorite foods like grapes.
