Runaway Kangaroo Causes Highway Shutdown in Alabama

Macon County, Alabama – A stray kangaroo caused a dramatic car crash that led to the shutdown of a busy highway on Tuesday. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) responded to the incident on Interstate 85, near the 46-mile marker, after two vehicles collided.

Authorities reported that the kangaroo interrupted traffic, leading to an accident involving two cars. Fortunately, the marsupial was uninjured, but both the north and southbound lanes were temporarily closed as ALEA troopers, along with the animal’s owner, worked to recover the kangaroo.

Patrick Starr, the owner of the kangaroo named Sheila, explained that she escaped from her enclosure at his family’s pumpkin patch and petting zoo. Although technically a personal pet, the situation quickly escalated as Sheila ran onto a highway, causing traffic chaos.

Starr expressed relief when the ordeal ended, saying, “She’s back home safe. She’s up. She’s not sedated anymore. She’s eating. She’s drinking. She’s not injured. She’s a sweet pet. I’m glad she’s back home, and I’m glad everybody slowed down a little bit.”

Sheila was treated at the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine and is now back with her family. Authorities have not disclosed how she managed to escape.