Zebra on the Run: Tennessee Sheriff’s Office Leads Search for Escaped Pet

A pet zebra remains at large in Rutherford County after escaping over the weekend, prompting a multi-day search by the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office.

The black-and-white fugitive was first spotted on May 31 galloping along a road in Christiana, Tennessee, and later caused chaos by running through traffic on Interstate 24 near Joe B. Jackson Parkway, forcing a temporary closure.

The zebra, last seen fleeing into nearby woods, has drawn regional attention, with sightings reported near Epps Mill Road and local subdivisions.

Sheriff’s deputies, alongside professional trackers and K9 units, are intensifying efforts to safely capture the animal, which can reach speeds of 30 mph and poses a collision risk.

Authorities urge residents not to approach the zebra and to report sightings to 615-898-7770.

The National Fraternal Order of Police highlighted the unusual case, calling it a “striped suspect” on the loose.

All Units: Be On the Lookout for One Striped Suspect 🦓

Only in Tennessee… A zebra is officially on the run.

After being caught on camera galloping through Christiana, TN, this speedy escape artist is still at large. The Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office confirmed it’s a… pic.twitter.com/pOyI49KPN6

— National Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) (@GLFOP) June 5, 2025