Macon County, AL
(
Apr 29, 2025
) -
A unique incident unfolded in Macon County, Alabama, when a runaway kangaroo named Sheila caused a two-car collision and temporarily shut down parts of Interstate 85. The event occurred on Tuesday, April 29, at approximately 11:50 a.m. local time. According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, Sheila had escaped from her enclosure near a pumpkin patch and petting zoo owned by her caretaker, Patrick Starr. Sheila bounded into the busy southbound lane near the 46-mile marker, resulting in two vehicles colliding as drivers tried to avoid the unexpected hazard. Traffic in both directions of the interstate was subsequently halted to ensure the safety of drivers and the animal.
Authorities, along with Starr, worked together to safely capture Sheila. The kangaroo was eventually tranquilized on a grassy area alongside the roadway and transported back to Starr’s vehicle. Starr later confirmed that Sheila was uninjured and treated at Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine before returning home. Following her recovery, Starr shared that Sheila was eating, drinking, and resting comfortably. The collision left no reports of any physical injuries to motorists, though the rare nature of the event took many by surprise, including Sheriff Andre Brunson, who remarked, “I’ve never seen anything like it. We had a bear a few years ago, but never a kangaroo.”
During the chase, videos posted on social media showed Sheila hopping across lanes of traffic, adding to the spectacle. Motorists were reportedly confused and astonished by the sight of a kangaroo on the interstate, a highly unusual event for the area. The highway remained closed for roughly three hours, causing significant traffic delays while officials and Starr worked to resolve the situation. Local residents expressed disbelief at the event, with one witness remarking that a kangaroo sighting in Alabama was “insane.”
This incident has reignited a conversation about keeping wild animals as pets. According to animal welfare organizations, kangaroo escapes have resulted in dozens of incidents across the United States over the last decade, further highlighting the risks involved in housing such animals outside their natural habitat. Sheila’s escape, one of several kangaroo-related events in Alabama in recent years, raised questions about public safety and the welfare of exotic pets.
If you’ve been involved in an accident, having access to your accident report is essential. These reports play a critical role in documenting key details, which can help prove fault and support insurance or legal claims. Without it, navigating post-accident challenges like securing fair compensation or understanding your rights becomes more difficult. For those seeking legal guidance or resources, contacting an accident injury attorney near you can make all the difference. Call today!
