San Antonio Stampede: Local Zoo Evacuated After Escaped Lions

San Antonio Stampede: Local Zoo Evacuated After Escaped LionsSan Antonio Stampede: Local Zoo Evacuated After Escaped Lions A tense situation unfolded in San Antonio on Thursday morning when two lions escaped their enclosure at the San Antonio Zoo. The incident prompted a full-scale evacuation of the facility and led to an hours-long search by local authorities. According to zoo officials, the lions, named Leo and Luna, managed to breach their containment area around 6:30 AM. Witnesses reported seeing the animals roaming freely near the zoo’s herbivore exhibits. Emergency responders were immediately dispatched to the scene, and the zoo was evacuated within minutes. Visitors and staff alike were ushered to safety as a perimeter was established around the zoo grounds. Search teams comprised of local police, zookeepers, and animal control officers began combing the area for the escaped lions. Drones and helicopters were also deployed to aid in the aerial search. Hours into the operation, Leo and Luna were located in a wooded area adjacent to the zoo. Police officers used tranquilizer darts to subdue the animals, which were then returned to their enclosure unharmed. The zoo remained closed for the rest of the day while officials conducted a thorough inspection of the containment area. The cause of the escape is still under investigation. “We are deeply relieved to have recovered Leo and Luna safely,” said zoo director Tim Morrow. “The safety of our animals and visitors is our top priority, and we are reviewing our protocols to ensure this does not happen again.” The incident has raised concerns about the security of zoo enclosures and the potential risks to both animals and the public. Experts are urging zoos to invest in advanced safety measures and to conduct regular drills to prepare for emergencies.